Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Half Tree Hollow in Saint Helena, as it plays a vital role in protecting skin health and preventing sunburn. The UV levels can fluctuate dramatically throughout the day, peaking around midday with an index as high as 9, signaling a significant risk for overexposure. Given the region's BWh climate, which is characterized by its warm and sunny weather, awareness of UV intensity is essential to safeguard your skin during outdoor activities. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful landscapes of Half Tree Hollow while taking tailored precautions against harmful ultraviolet radiation.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off low at a comfortable 1 from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it jumps to 3, signaling a gradual increase in sun exposure. The intensity peaks around 12:00 PM, reaching an impressive 9, making midday the most critical time for sun safety. As the afternoon unfolds, the index slowly declines; it drops to 7 by 2:00 PM, then further decreases to 4 at 3:00 PM. The later hours offer a gentle reprieve, with values falling to 1 by 5:00 PM and ultimately 0 by 6:00 PM. Remember, during those peak hours, it’s essential to protect your skin!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels display significant seasonal variations, with extreme levels persisting from January to April and again in September to November. The highest UV Index is recorded in the first four months of the year, peaking at 15, necessitating a cautious approach with a burn time of only 10 minutes. As temperatures rise, the UV Index decreases slightly in May and June, yet still maintains a very high category, allowing for a burn time of 15 minutes. The late summer months, particularly August, report slightly elevated levels before dropping again in the fall. Visitors and residents should take special care during high-risk months, particularly from January to April and September to November, by using appropriate sun protection strategies such as sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours to minimize sun exposure and risk of skin damage.
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 |
| Half Tree Hollow | 15 | 15 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 14 | 14 | 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 |
| Georgetown UVI | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 |