UV Index in Orkney, South Africa

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Orkney, South Africa, is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With typical daily UV levels peaking around noon, reaching up to 7, awareness of these fluctuations can help you effectively prevent sunburn and longer-term skin damage. The semi-arid climate of Orkney exposes residents and visitors alike to increased UV risks, particularly during the warmer months. By staying informed about UV levels, you can enjoy the sun while prioritizing your skin's health and comfort.

Hourly UV Index in Orkney

The UV Index for the day reveals a significant shift as the sun rises. Starting at a low 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, the intensity gradually ramps up, peaking at 7 during 12:00 and 13:00—prime time to protect your skin! As the afternoon progresses, it dips to 5 by 14:00, then descends further to 3 at 15:00. The latter part of the day sees a decline in UV exposure, returning to 1 by 16:00 and eventually dropping to 0 by 18:00 and 19:00. Be mindful of the midday sun; it's wise to wear sunscreen and seek shade when the UV Index is at its highest!

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	5	moderate	30 min
11:00	6	high	25 min
12:00	7	high	25 min
13:00	7	high	25 min
14:00	5	moderate	30 min
15:00	3	moderate	30 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 Orkney

Seasonal UV changes indicate that the highest risk months occur from January to April, consistently presenting an extreme UV Index of 16 to 13 and a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. This high exposure continues through September and November, dropping slightly in May and June. May offers a more moderate risk with a high UV Index of 7 and a burn time of 25 minutes, followed by July, which returns to a high level, but with a burn time of 25 minutes. During August, while still high at 8, the burn time decreases to 15 minutes. As winter approaches again, October to December sees another spike in danger. Visitors and residents should take precautions during these high-risk months by applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during peak sunlight hours.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Orkney, South Africa

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Orkney 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.

Orkney'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
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
Orkney	16	15	13	11	7	5	6	8	11	13	15	16
Soweto UVI	16	15	13	11	7	6	6	8	11	13	15	16