UV Index in Margate, South Africa

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Being aware of the UV Index in Margate, South Africa is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels helps you take proactive steps against sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer. With Margate's pleasant Cfa climate, residents and visitors enjoy beautiful beach days, but with that comes a heightened risk of UV exposure, particularly during peak hours when the index reaches as high as 6 around noon. Stay informed and enjoy the sun responsibly!

Hourly UV Index in Margate

Experience the sun's intensity as the day unfolds with the UV Index revealing a dynamic range of exposure. Beginning at dawn, the index starts at a modest 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, making it a safe time for morning strolls. As the sun climbs higher, the UV Index rises sharply, peaking at 6 between 12:00 and 13:00, signaling high risk for skin damage at midday. Afterward, it gradually tapers off, dipping to 2 by 15:00, and further falling back to 1 by the late afternoon. As evening approaches, the UV levels finally drop to 0 after 18:00, providing a safe end to the day. Remember, protection is key during those peak hours!

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	1	low	45 min
08:00	1	low	45 min
09:00	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	4	moderate	30 min
11:00	5	moderate	30 min
12:00	6	high	25 min
13:00	5	moderate	30 min
14:00	4	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 Margate

Throughout the year, UV index levels exhibit significant seasonal variation, with the highest risks occurring from January to March and again in October to December. During these months, the UV Index soars to extreme levels of 13 to 14, necessitating a burn time of just 10 minutes for unprotected skin. April and September also present high-risk periods with a very high UV Index of 9, where the burn time decreases to 15 minutes. Late spring and summer months, particularly May to July, see a moderate drop in UV exposure, transitioning from a high of 6 in May to 4 in June and July, allowing for longer safe exposure times. However, August marks a return to high levels, with an index of 7. Given this data, residents and visitors are strongly advised to prioritize sun safety during the high-risk months by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours when UV radiation is at its peak.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Margate, South Africa

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Margate. 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 Margate, 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 Margate UV Index with Other South Africa Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Margate 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.

Margate'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
Margate	14	13	11	9	6	4	4	7	9	11	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