Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial in Bethesda, United Kingdom, where the varying levels of ultraviolet radiation can pose risks to skin health, especially during summer months. With peak UV levels reaching as high as 8 during midday, awareness is essential for preventing sunburn and maintaining long-term skin health. The Cfb climate in Bethesda means you can experience significant UV exposure even on cloudy days, making it vital to monitor UV levels. Equip yourself with knowledge to enjoy the outdoors safely while protecting your skin from harmful rays.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a gentle 1 at 07:00. By 09:00, it gradually ramps up to 3, signaling the start of a moderately sunny day. The index peaks at 8 from 12:00 to 14:00, reminding everyone to take care as midday rays can be intense. Following this peak, the UV levels begin to decline sharply, dropping to 7 at 15:00 and further to 4 by 17:00. As the sun sets, the UV Index falls back to 2 at 18:00 and settles at 1 by 19:00, marking the end of the day’s solar intensity. Stay sun-safe and enjoy the rays while they last!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index values fluctuate significantly, indicating varying levels of sun exposure risk. The high-risk months are from May to August, where the UV Index reaches its peak at 7-8, classifying them as high to very high exposure. Specifically, June and July present the greatest risk, with a burn time of only 15 minutes. In contrast, the winter months (January, February, November, and December) show a low exposure category with UV Index values of 1-2, allowing for longer safe sun exposure (up to 45 minutes). To ensure safety, it is advisable for visitors and residents to take protective measures during the high UV months, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liverpool UVI | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| Sheffield UVI | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Bethesda | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Birmingham UVI | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| London UVI | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Bristol UVI | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |