Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Singapore, where sun exposure is a daily reality due to its tropical climate. The UV levels in this bustling city-state can peak dangerously high, especially around midday, hitting a maximum of 12—a level that can lead to sunburn and long-term skin health issues if we're not careful. With UV rays reaching peak intensity from 11 AM to 2 PM, being aware of these levels is essential for protecting yourself and enjoying the outdoors safely. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can take proactive steps to safeguard your skin while soaking up the vibrant life in Singapore.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dramatic rise as the sun climbs higher in the sky. Starting at a low 1 by 07:00, the intensity gradually increases to 3 by 09:00. The real heat kicks in at 11:00, peaking at an impressive 12 by 13:00, making this the prime time for sun protection. As the afternoon progresses, values slowly dip, dropping to 5 by 16:00 and all the way to 1 again by the evening. For those planning outdoor activities, it’s essential to stay vigilant around midday when the UV Index reaches its maximum—11 to 12—to ensure safety under the sun!
| 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index remains consistently high, particularly from January to April, where it peaks at 15 and poses an extreme risk of sunburn with a dangerously low burn time of 10 minutes. High-risk months are evident, including February, March, and April, making it crucial for visitors and residents to take precautions. Even in the milder months of May to August, the UV Index remains above 12, signifying a continued need for protective measures. As the year progresses, September and October see a slight drop to 14, yet caution is still warranted. Therefore, it is advisable for everyone to regularly apply sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade, particularly during peak sun hours, to reduce the risk of sun damage year-round.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Woodlands UVI | 13 | 15 | 16 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 |
| Singapore | 13 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 |
| Marine Parade UVI | 13 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 12 |