Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Prince Albert, South Africa, staying aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting skin health and preventing sunburn, especially in a region characterized by its semi-arid climate. Understanding UV levels helps residents and visitors take necessary precautions during the day, as the sun can be surprisingly intense, reaching a maximum index of 6 around midday. With outdoor activities being popular in the area, recognizing the risks posed by ultraviolet rays is essential for maintaining skin vitality and ensuring enjoyable experiences under the sun. Remember, even on seemingly mild days, UV exposure can add up quickly, making it important to check the index regularly!
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a dynamic shift in sun intensity, peaking around midday. Starting from a low of 0 at 7 AM, the index gradually climbs as the sun rises, reaching a moderate 6 at noon. From this point, it gently declines, dipping to 5 at 1 PM and easing to 3 by 3 PM. As the afternoon fades to evening, the UV levels drop to 1 by 5 PM, and ultimately return to 0 after 6 PM. This pattern highlights the importance of sun protection during the midday hours, especially as UV levels peak, making it crucial to take precautions to safeguard your skin!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 3 | 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 shows significant seasonal variations, with the highest levels occurring in the winter months, notably January (14) and February (14), both categorized as extreme with a burn time of just 10 minutes. Other high-risk months include March (11), October (12), and November (13), all also classified as extreme or very high. In contrast, June and July present lower UV levels at 4, classified as moderate, allowing for longer exposure times of 30 minutes. From April through September, the UV Index fluctuates between very high and high, with burn times ranging from 15 to 25 minutes. Visitors and residents should exercise caution, especially during the high-risk months, by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade when necessary to minimize the risk of sunburn and skin damage.
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 |
| Prince Albert | 14 | 14 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 4 | 6 | 9 | 12 | 13 | 15 |
| 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 |