UV Index in Port Alfred, South Africa

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Port Alfred, South Africa, staying aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet radiation. Understanding the UV levels helps you take necessary precautions against sunburn and reduces the risk of long-term skin damage. With a temperate Cfb climate, Port Alfred enjoys ample sunshine, which can lead to elevated UV exposure, particularly during midday hours when the index peaks at 4. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors while prioritizing your skin health and safety.

Hourly UV Index in Port Alfred

The UV Index throughout the day reveals a dynamic pattern of sun intensity. In the morning, it starts off low, peaking at 1 by 09:00. As the sun climbs higher, we see a steady increase with the index reaching 3 by 11:00. The highest point occurs from 12:00 to 13:00, where the UV Index hits a robust 4, indicating a need for sun protection during those hours. Following this peak, the index gradually declines, returning to 2 at 15:00, and then dropping back down to 0 by 18:00, marking the end of significant UV exposure for the day. Plan your outdoor activities accordingly to stay safe under the sun!

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.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	0	low	45 min
08:00	1	low	45 min
09:00	1	low	45 min
10:00	2	low	45 min
11:00	3	moderate	30 min
12:00	4	moderate	30 min
13:00	4	moderate	30 min
14:00	3	moderate	30 min
15:00	2	low	45 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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Port Alfred

The UV Index fluctuates significantly throughout the year, with January, February, March, November, and December classified as high-risk months due to their extreme exposure levels; during these times, the risk of skin damage from UV radiation is particularly high, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. Moving into the spring, April and September show very high levels, necessitating a burn time of 15 minutes. As summer approaches, the UV Index softens to moderate levels in May, June, and July, where burn times extend to 30 minutes. However, visitors and residents should remain vigilant in August, as the UV Index climbs to 6, indicating high risk once again. Overall, it is crucial to adopt protective measures, such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing, especially in extreme and very high categories, to safeguard against harmful UV exposure.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Port Alfred, South Africa

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Port Alfred. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Port Alfred, 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 Port Alfred UV Index with Other South Africa Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Port Alfred 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.

Port Alfred's solar exposure compared to other cities in South Africa. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Cape Town UVI	14	13	11	8	5	3	4	6	9	11	12	14
Port Alfred	14	13	11	8	5	4	4	6	9	10	12	14
Durban UVI	14	13	12	9	6	4	5	7	9	11	13	15
Johannesburg UVI	15	15	13	10	7	6	6	8	11	12	14	16
Pretoria UVI	16	15	13	10	7	6	6	9	11	13	14	16
Soweto UVI	16	15	13	11	7	6	6	8	11	13	15	16