Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Parys, South Africa, where the sun's rays can be particularly intense, especially during peak hours. Being aware of the UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburn but also plays a vital role in maintaining long-term skin health. In this Cwa climate zone, the UV exposure can reach levels as high as 6 around midday, making it essential to stay informed about daily fluctuations. By tracking these UV Index readings, you'll be better equipped to enjoy the beautiful Parys sunshine while protecting your skin from potential damage.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a clear progression of sun intensity. Starting at a mellow 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, the index gradually climbs, reaching its peak of 6 by 12:00. For those looking to soak up the sun, the 11:00 to 12:00 window offers the most potent rays at a level of 5 and 6, respectively. As afternoon sets in, the index begins to wane, dropping to 4 at 14:00, then 3 at 15:00, and tapering off to 1 by 16:00. By 18:00 and 19:00, the UV exposure diminishes to 0, signaling a safe time to enjoy outdoor activities without sun protection. Plan your sun time wisely to stay safe and make the most of each hour!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 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 | 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 |
The UV Index data reveals significant seasonal changes, with January through April marking the highest risk months, all categorized as extreme with a UV Index ranging from 11 to 16 and a burn time as quick as 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should exercise extreme caution during these months, taking necessary precautions such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade. The risk remains high in September through November, as UV levels reach 11 to 14, with the same recommended burn time of 10 minutes. May through July sees a slight decrease, categorized as high, with burn times extending to 25 minutes, though caution is still advised, especially in August, when the index peaks again to 8 at a very high exposure level and a reduced burn time of 15 minutes. Overall, maintaining awareness and practicing sun safety is crucial year-round, particularly during these high-risk months.
UV Risk Categories
| 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 |
| Parys | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 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 |