Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Pilikwe, Botswana, where the regional climate (BSh) brings abundant sunshine and higher UV exposure risks. Being aware of UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and maintaining skin health, especially during peak hours when the UV Index can reach as high as 8 around noon. With the sun rising early and setting late, knowing how to protect yourself from harmful rays is essential to enjoy the beautiful outdoors without compromising your well-being. Stay informed and take the necessary precautions to keep your skin safe under the bright Botswana sun!
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM, making it a safe time for early risers. By 9:00 AM, it reaches a moderate 3, but excitement builds with a steady climb through the morning. At 10:00 AM, the index soars to 6, peaking at an intense 8 by 12:00 PM. This is the moment when sun protection becomes essential! As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to dip, falling to 6 at 2:00 PM and then tapering off to 3 by 3:00 PM. Finally, as the sun sets, the index declines to 0 around 6:00 PM, signaling a safe end to UV exposure for the day. Enjoy the sunshine responsibly!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
14:00 | 6 | high | 25 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 |
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 |
Pilikwe | 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 |