Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents of Letsheng, Botswana, where the country's warm semi-arid climate (BSh) often leads to increased sun exposure. Being aware of UV levels not only helps prevent painful sunburns but also promotes long-term skin health. With UV Index readings peaking at 7 between noon and 1 PM, it's crucial to take precautions during those hours to minimize the risk of skin damage. By staying informed about daily UV fluctuations, you can enjoy the sunny weather while keeping your skin safe and healthy!
The UV Index throughout the day fluctuates significantly, beginning at a low level of 1 during the early morning hours of 07:00 and 08:00. As the sun climbs higher, the intensity gradually increases, reaching a moderate level of 2 by 09:00, before surging to a high of 6 at 11:00. The peak UV Index occurs at 12:00, soaring to a critical 7, which signals the highest risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. After this midday zenith, the index begins to decline, tapering off to 4 by 14:00 and further diminishing to 1 by 17:00. As daylight fades, the UV levels drop to 0 by 18:00 and stay there through the evening, emphasizing the importance of midday sun protection.
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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
13:00 | 6 | high | 25 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 experiences significant seasonal variations, with extreme levels observed from January to April, reaching highs of 16 in January and February, requiring only 10 minutes of exposure to cause sunburn. As the year progresses, the index decreases, hitting a high of 7 in June and July, where the burn time increases to 25 minutes. August sees a resurgence to a very high index of 9. The months of September through November return to extreme levels, with October peaking at an index of 13. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautionary measures during the high-risk months of January through April and again in September and October, including wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen frequently, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to mitigate the risk of sunburn and UV exposure.
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 |
Letsheng | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 |
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 |