UV Index in Francistown, Botswana

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Francistown, Botswana, is crucial for safeguarding your health under the sun. With the intense rays typical of a BSh climate, awareness of UV levels can help you prevent sunburn and protect your skin from long-term damage. As the day progresses, UV levels can peak at 7 around noon, emphasizing the need for proactive sun safety measures. By staying informed about these fluctuations, residents and visitors can enjoy the beautiful, sunny days in Francistown while minimizing their risk of harmful UV exposure.

Hourly UV Index in Francistown

At dawn, the UV Index starts off low, with a maximum of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00. As the sun rises higher, it reaches 3 by 09:00, before climbing to a peak of 7 at 12:00. This midday intensity signifies a need for sun protection, especially during the height of the day when UV exposure is most potent. The index begins to decline in the afternoon, dropping to 5 at 14:00 and settling back to 1 by 17:00. By 18:00 and into the evening, the UV Index sharply drops to 0, marking a safe time to enjoy outdoor activities without the risk of sunburn. Stay sun-safe!

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	5	moderate	30 min
11:00	6	high	25 min
12:00	7	high	25 min
13:00	6	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Francistown

Throughout the year, UV Index levels in the region exhibit significant seasonal fluctuations. The high-risk months for UV exposure are from January to April, where the UV Index ranges between 12 and 17, all categorized as extreme, with a very short burn time of just 10 minutes. September to December also presents high risk, particularly in September and October when the UV Index remains high, leading to potential burns in just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should take precautions during these high-risk months by applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during peak sunlight hours. In contrast, May to July, while still concerning, see a decrease in risk with UV levels classified as very high or high, allowing for slightly longer safe exposure times of 15 to 25 minutes, but caution is still advised.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Francistown, Botswana

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Francistown 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.

Francistown'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	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