Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Malaka, Botswana, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn. With the region's BSh climate characterized by hot, dry conditions, UV exposure can reach significant levels, especially during midday hours. Understanding UV levels empowers residents and visitors alike to take necessary precautions, ensuring enjoyable outdoor experiences while protecting against the harmful effects of the sun. During peak hours, such as 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM when the UV Index peaks at 7—a level indicating the need for extra care—being aware of these numbers makes all the difference in promoting healthy sun habits in this vibrant area.
The UV Index exhibits a dynamic pattern throughout the day, peaking sharply around midday. Starting off mild at 07:00 and 08:00 with a UV Index of 1, exposure remains minimal. However, as the sun climbs, the intensity increases significantly by 09:00, reaching 3, and continues to rise to a notable peak of 7 at 12:00 and 13:00. This indicates a need for sun protection during these hours. By 14:00, the UV Index begins to decline, falling to 5, and subsequently drops further, settling at 1 by 17:00 and finally reaching 0 by 18:00. In summary, the day's UV exposure highlights the importance of vigilance against UV radiation, particularly between 10:00 and 14:00 when the sun’s rays are at their strongest.
| 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 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index values exhibit significant seasonal changes, with extreme exposure levels dominating the first half of the year. The months of January to April (UV Index 16 to 11) carry a high risk, requiring individuals to limit sun exposure to just 10 minutes to avoid burns. This trend continues with October and November again presenting extreme conditions, reiterating the importance of sun safety during these months. May and August mark a slight decrease to very high exposure, allowing for a 15-minute burn time, while June and July offer high UV levels, where one can safely enjoy the sun for 25 minutes. As a precaution, both residents and visitors should prioritize sun protection—such as using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade—especially during high-risk months.
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 |
| Malaka | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 14 | 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 |