As autumn begins: High UV Index in coming days

It might be the start of meteorological autumn but the weather has other plans for us, with a return of summer through this week.

During summer the UV index in the UK can reach high levels daily beneath unbroken sunshine. Even on a cloudy day, UV levels can still be high with UV able to be reflected and scattered in the clouds.

There are three types of UV rays: UVA, UVB, and UVC. UVC is the most dangerous form of UV radiation, but luckily this is absorbed by the atmosphere before it reaches Earth.

UVB penetrates the top layer of the skin and leads to sunburn. UVA is the most potent source which we are exposed to all year long. It can pass through windows and clouds and penetrates deep into our skin, leading to ageing and increasing our risk of skin cancer.

Because of the dangers associated with increased levels of UV, particularly in the spring and summer months when UV radiation is at its strongest, the UV Index was created. The higher the UV Index, the stronger the UV radiation and faster the skin will burn.

This week, UV levels could reach 'High' for your area as temperatures rise into the mid-to-high twenties beneath plenty of sunshine, reaching 6 or 7 on the hottest days.

At this level, there is a risk of burning within 30-60 minutes. As we spend more time outside, be sure to check the UV Index level near you inside our app!

With cloudless skies expected this week despite it being the start of autumn, your skin can still burn. Check the WeatherRadar for the latest.