UV Index in Kachikau, Botswana

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors of Kachikau, Botswana, a region characterized by its warm BSh climate. Awareness of UV levels plays a crucial role in preventing sunburn and protecting skin health, especially as exposure can vary significantly throughout the day. During peak hours, particularly from 11:00 to 13:00, the UV Index often reaches high levels (up to 9), indicating an increased risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Recognizing these patterns helps ensure that individuals can enjoy the sun safely while minimizing the potential for skin damage.

Hourly UV Index in Kachikau

As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off low at a comfortable 1 from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it jumps to 3, signaling a gradual increase in sun exposure. The intensity peaks around 12:00 PM, reaching an impressive 9, making midday the most critical time for sun safety. As the afternoon unfolds, the index slowly declines; it drops to 7 by 2:00 PM, then further decreases to 4 at 3:00 PM. The later hours offer a gentle reprieve, with values falling to 1 by 5:00 PM and ultimately 0 by 6:00 PM. Remember, during those peak hours, it’s essential to protect your skin!

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	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	6	high	25 min
11:00	8	very high	15 min
12:00	9	very high	15 min
13:00	9	very high	15 min
14:00	7	high	25 min
15:00	4	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 Kachikau

The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variation, with extreme levels persisting from January to April and returning in September, October, and November. Notably, the highest risk months for UV exposure occur from January through April, where the UV Index reaches as high as 17, indicating an extreme exposure category with an immediate burn time of just 10 minutes. In late spring and summer, UV levels decrease slightly, but still maintain a very high classification from May through August, where burn times extend to 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should take precautions, particularly during high-risk months; it is advisable to wear protective clothing, apply broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seek shade during peak sunlight hours to mitigate the risk of skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Kachikau, Botswana

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Kachikau. 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 Kachikau, 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 Kachikau UV Index with Other Botswana Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Kachikau 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.

Kachikau'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
Kachikau	17	15	14	13	10	8	8	10	12	13	15	15