Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in West Island, Cocos (Keeling) Islands is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful UV rays. With peak UV levels soaring to 11 during midday hours, it's essential to be aware of how these readings can affect your skin health and risk of sunburn. The island's Af climate brings frequent sunny days, amplifying the need for vigilant sun protection. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful, tropical environment while effectively minimizing your exposure to potential skin damage. Remember, awareness is your first line of defense for a safe and enjoyable outdoor experience!
As the sun rises, the UV Index climbs steadily, starting at a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it reaches 3, marking the beginning of increased sun exposure. The day continues to heat up, with the index peaking at a remarkable 11 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, indicating a high risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the afternoon sets in, it gradually declines, dropping to 6 by 2:00 PM and subsequently to 3 by 3:00 PM. As the sun begins to descend, the index returns to a safer 1 by 4:00 PM and tapers off to 0 after 6:00 PM. This hourly trend underscores the importance of sun protection during the midday hours when the UV exposure is at its highest.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index experiences seasonal variations, with the highest readings occurring from January to November, consistently categorized as extreme exposure, resulting in a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. Notably, February and November see peak values of 16, indicating particularly high risk during these months. As the summer months approach, the UV Index slightly decreases, reaching 10 in June, yet stays within the very high category. However, July and August return to extreme levels, reminding us that protection is essential year-round. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions against UV exposure, such as wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade, especially during peak index months of January, February, and November.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Island | 15 | 16 | 15 | 14 | 11 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 15 |