Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Gweta, Botswana, where the hot BSh climate leads to significant sun exposure. Familiarizing yourself with UV levels can safeguard your skin from harmful sunburn and long-term health issues, ensuring you enjoy the sunshine safely. With peak UV readings reaching 8 around midday, it’s essential to take preventive measures during these hours, as spending even short periods under such intense sunlight can pose risks. Stay informed and protect your skin while embracing the beauty of Gweta!
At dawn, the UV Index remains low, peaking at 1 by 08:00. As the sun rises higher, a notable increase occurs, reaching 3 at 09:00 and escalating dramatically to a maximum of 8 from 12:00 to 13:00. This midday surge indicates a higher risk for sun exposure, making it essential to take precautions such as wearing sunscreen and protective clothing. The intensity then gradually declines, dropping to 4 by 15:00, and continuing its descent to 0 by 19:00, marking the end of the sun’s peak influence for the day. Stay mindful of these hourly fluctuations to enjoy the sun safely!
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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
14:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
15:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
During the year, UV Index levels fluctuate significantly, with extreme levels recorded from January through April and during the months of September to November, indicating a high risk of skin damage from sun exposure. January, February, March, and April show an exceptionally high UV Index of 16, suggesting a burn time of just 10 minutes. Transitioning into the summer, May, June, July, and August experience a drop to a very high UV Index, with burn times extending to 15 minutes. As the year progresses into fall, the UV Index increases again, peaking in November before returning to extreme levels in December. Visitors and residents should take the necessary precautions, such as wearing sunscreen and protective clothing, especially during high-risk months in the winter and early spring while enjoying outdoor activities.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Gaborone UVI | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 6 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 16 |
Molepolole UVI | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 6 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 16 |
Selebi-Phikwe UVI | 16 | 15 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 14 | 14 | 15 |
Francistown UVI | 17 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 7 | 10 | 11 | 14 | 14 | 15 |
Maun UVI | 16 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 15 |
Gweta | 16 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 16 |