Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Tamasane, Botswana, is crucial for maintaining skin health, especially given the area's BSh climate, which can lead to significant sun exposure. Awareness of UV levels can help you prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of long-term skin damage. During peak hours, particularly from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, UV Index values soar, reaching as high as 8, indicating intense UV radiation. Being informed about these levels empowers residents and visitors alike to take necessary precautions against harmful sun exposure, ensuring a healthier experience under the African sun.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases an interesting pattern of solar intensity and risk levels. From the early hours, the index starts low at 1 by 07:00, gradually climbing to a moderate 3 by 09:00. The sun reaches its peak intensity at 11:00, where the index hits 8, remaining steady until 13:00—a time best reserved for shade-seekers and sunscreen users. As the afternoon progresses, the intensity begins to wane, dipping back to 3 by 15:00, and then dropping to a negligible 0 by 18:00, marking a safe end to the sun's more harmful rays. Stay vigilant during those midday hours for optimal sun safety!
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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
14:00 | 6 | high | 25 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 |
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 |
Tamasane | 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 |