UV Index in East London, South Africa

Last updated: August 1, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in East London, South Africa, is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With its Cfa climate, this region experiences varying UV levels throughout the day, especially peaking between 10 AM and 2 PM. Monitoring UV exposure helps you prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage, ensuring outdoor activities remain enjoyable and safe. Knowing that the UV Index can reach levels of 4, it’s vital to be aware of the sun's intensity as you soak in the vibrant Eastern Cape lifestyle. Stay informed and stay protected!

Hourly UV Index in East London

The UV Index throughout the day displays an interesting trajectory, peaking in the late morning to early afternoon. Starting at a low of 1 from 07:00 to 09:00, the index rises sharply to 3 by 10:00. By 11:00, it hits 4, maintaining this level until 13:00—the hottest point of the day. As the afternoon progresses, the index drops to 3 at 14:00 and then gently descends to 2 by 15:00. Finally, it slides back down to 1 by 16:00 and dips to 0 after 18:00, signaling a safe return to low UV exposure. Stay vigilant during midday hours as the sun shines brightest! 🌞

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:001low45 min
09:003moderate30 min
10:004moderate30 min
11:006high25 min
12:006high25 min
13:006high25 min
14:004moderate30 min
15:003moderate30 min
16:001low45 min
17:001low45 min
18:000low45 min
19:000low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in East London

The UV Index experiences significant seasonal fluctuations, peaking during the winter months. January and February record an extreme UV Index of 14 and 13 respectively, with a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. This trend continues into March with an index of 11. As spring arrives in April, the UV Index drops to 8 (very high), allowing for 15 minutes of exposure before burning occurs. From May to July, the UV Index levels decrease to 5 and 4 (moderate), extending burn times to 30 minutes. However, the UV exposure rises again in late summer, with August at 6 (high) and 25 minutes of burn time. As fall approaches, the UV levels rebound in September to 9 (very high) before shifting back to extreme levels in October (11) and November (12), both with a burn time of 10 minutes. December mirrors January, reaching UV levels of 14. Visitors and residents should take precautionary measures during high-risk months (January to March, October to November) by applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours to mitigate the risks associated with high UV exposure.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for East London, South Africa

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in East London. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec141311854469111214
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for East London, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare East London UV Index with Other South Africa Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in East London compares to other major locations across South Africa. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.
East London's solar exposure compared to other cities in South Africa. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Cape Town UVI141311853469111214
East London141311854469111214
Durban UVI141312964579111315
Johannesburg UVI15151310766811121416
Pretoria UVI16151310766911131416
Soweto UVI16151311766811131516