UV Index
UV Index
Today's UV index in Edinburgh, United Kingdom 
will be up to 4.3, indicating a moderate level of sun exposure for the average person. Check our tips for today to make sure you're safe in the sun.
Last checked: 2025-05-10
With a UV index reaching up to 4.3 in Edinburgh, stay shaded during midday when the sun is strongest; wear protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, UV-blocking sunglasses; apply SPF 30+ sunscreen every 2 hours, even on cloudy days; and be cautious of heightened UV on bright surfaces.
Edinburgh's UV index is generally low to moderate, rarely exceeding 5 even in summer. The city experiences fewer intense UV days compared to sunnier locations. UV levels are highest around midday during late spring and summer.
Seasonally, Edinburgh has cool summers with average highs around 19°C and cold, damp winters averaging 2°C. Rainfall is spread evenly throughout the year, and the city often experiences cloudy and windy conditions. Snow is occasional but not heavy.
Compared to the rest of the UK, Edinburgh is cooler and windier, especially than southern England. Neighboring countries like Ireland have similar weather patterns but often receive slightly more rain. Scotland’s northern location means it has lower UV levels overall.
See the UV index hour by hour for Edinburgh, along with the temperature and how cloudy it is. If the UV level is higher than moderate, it's best to avoid direct sunlight.