UV Index in Rakops, Botswana

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Rakops, Botswana, awareness of the UV Index is essential for safeguarding your skin and overall health. The understanding of UV levels is crucial, especially in preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage, which can occur quickly in the intense sun. Rakops, located in a semi-arid climate (BSh), experiences significant UV exposure, especially during the midday hours when the index peaks at 7. With this knowledge, residents and visitors can take proactive measures to enjoy the sun safely while maximizing their outdoor activities.

Hourly UV Index in Rakops

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins low, peaking at 1 at 07:00 and 08:00. By 09:00, it starts to climb, reaching 2 before the day's intensity ramps up significantly. At 10:00, the index hits 5, and by 11:00, it escalates to 6. The sun is at its strongest between 12:00 and 13:00, where it soars to a maximum of 7—a reminder to take precautions against harmful rays. As the afternoon rolls in, the index dips to 5 by 14:00, then steadily decreases to 3 at 15:00, 2 at 16:00, and finally retreats to 1 at 17:00. By 18:00 and 19:00, the UV Index drops to 0, signaling the end of a sun-soaked day. Remember to stay sun-safe during those peak hours!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
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	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Rakops

Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, with the highest readings occurring from January to April, where it ranges from 14 to 16 and is classified as extreme, necessitating a burn time of only 10 minutes. September through November also presents extreme UV levels, with values between 13 and 15 and a similar burn time. Conversely, the summer months of May to August see a decrease, transitioning to very high UV levels from 9 to 10, allowing for slightly longer exposure times of up to 15 to 25 minutes in June. Visitors and residents are advised to exercise caution during the high-risk months of January through April and September through November by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade as needed to mitigate the risk of skin damage. It is essential to stay informed and prioritise sun safety year-round.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Rakops, Botswana

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Rakops. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Rakops, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Rakops UV Index with Other Botswana Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Rakops compares to other major locations across Botswana. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Rakops's solar exposure compared to other cities in Botswana. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
Rakops	16	15	14	12	9	7	8	10	12	13	15	15