Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Georgetown, located in the unique islands of Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunha. With the sun reaching its peak intensity between late morning and early afternoon, awareness of UV levels can significantly impact sunburn prevention and overall skin health. As Georgetown experiences an Am climate, characterized by mild temperatures and moderate sunlight exposure, knowing when the UV Index rises to levels 7 or higher—particularly around noon—can help you take necessary precautions to protect yourself from harmful effects of UV radiation. Stay sun-safe and informed to enjoy the splendor of this beautiful region without compromising your skin’s wellbeing!
The UV Index for today reveals a clear pattern of increasing intensity as the sun rises. Starting at a low of 0 at 07:00, the index gradually climbs to 1 by 08:00. The real intensity kicks in by 10:00, reaching a significant 5, and continues to rise, peaking at 10 during the midday hour of 13:00. After this high, the numbers begin to taper off, with a notable drop to 6 at 15:00, then falling to 4 by 16:00. As the day winds down, the UV Index descends towards safer levels, ending the day back at 1 by 18:00 and returning to 0 at 19:00. It’s essential to stay protected from noon to early afternoon when UV exposure is at its highest!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
During the year, UV Index levels exhibit minimal fluctuation, remaining predominantly at 14 (extreme) from January through March, with a slight decrease to 13 in April and 12 in May. The months of June and July see a drop to 10 (very high), before rising back to 11 in August. From September through November, the index returns to extreme levels, peaking again in December. High-risk months are identified as January, February, March, and November, where immediate and consistent protection against UV radiation is crucial, with a burn time as low as 10 minutes. Residents and visitors are advised to prioritize sun protection strategies year-round, especially during peak months, by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours to mitigate health risks.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Edinburgh of the Seven Seas UVI | 14 | 13 | 11 | 7 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 5 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 15 |
| Jamestown UVI | 15 | 15 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 14 | 14 | 15 |
| Longwood UVI | 15 | 15 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 14 | 14 | 15 |
| Half Tree Hollow UVI | 15 | 15 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 14 | 14 | 15 |
| Georgetown | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 |