Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Mathathane, Botswana, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn. During the sunny months typical of this semi-arid climate, UV levels can soar, peaking at 8 between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, signaling a high risk for unprotected skin. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, residents can make informed decisions about sun exposure and protective measures, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience under the African sun. Stay informed and protect yourself against harmful UV rays!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a gentle 1 by 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it nudges up to 2, signaling a mild increase in UV exposure. The intensity heats up quickly, reaching a moderate 4 by 9:00 AM, before hitting its peak of 8 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. This is the prime time for sun safety awareness! After noon, the UV Index gradually declines; by 3:00 PM, it recedes to 3, and as the day wanes, it drops significantly to 1 by 4:00 PM. By evening, UV levels have diminished, reaching 0 by 6:00 PM, offering a reprieve from the sun’s rays.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
14:00 | 5 | 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 |
Mathathane | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 |
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 |