How to Read the UV Index in the UK
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Sunburn isn't caused by heat. It's caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which you can't see or feel. That's why a cool, breezy day at the beach can still leave you burnt. The UV index is the simplest way to know when to protect your skin.
What is the UV index?
The UV index is a scale that measures how strong the sun's UV is at a given place and time. The higher the number, the faster unprotected skin can burn. It was developed by the World Health Organization and appears in weather forecasts around the world.
What the numbers mean
| UV index | Level | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| 1–2 | Low | Low risk for most people. Sunglasses on bright days. |
| 3–5 | Moderate | Shade at midday, cover up, hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. |
| 6–7 | High | As above, and cut your time in the sun between 11am and 3pm. |
| 8–10 | Very high | Extra care. Stay in the shade between 11am and 3pm if you can. |
| 11+ | Extreme | Avoid being outside around midday. Take every precaution. |
When is UV strongest in the UK?
In the UK, the sun is strongest between 11am and 3pm from March to October. UV depends on the time of year, the time of day and the cloud, not the temperature, so you can burn on a cool or cloudy day.
If your shadow is shorter than you are, UV is strong. Time to cover up.
Water, sand and snow reflect UV, so take extra care at the beach, on the water and on the slopes.
How to protect yourself
- Cover up with clothing and a wide-brimmed hat.
- Seek shade around midday.
- Use a broad spectrum sunscreen, SPF 30 or higher, and apply plenty.
- Reapply at least every 2 hours, and straight after swimming, towelling or sweating.
- Wear sunglasses with a CE or UKCA mark.
Protecting kids
Keep babies under 6 months out of direct sun. For older children, cover up first, then use sunscreen on the skin clothes can't cover, and reapply at break times. A coloured zinc stick makes it easy to see where you've covered on noses, cheeks and ears.
Where to check the UV forecast
Most weather apps show the UV index, and the Met Office publishes a daily UV forecast for the UK.
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