Last updated: September 1, 2025
In Ghanzi, Botswana, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting yourself from harmful solar radiation. Understanding UV levels is essential not only for preventing sunburn but also for maintaining long-term skin health. With a semi-arid climate characterized by intense sunlight, Ghanzi experiences significant UV exposure, especially between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, when the UV Index often peaks at 7. Staying informed about these levels can empower you to enjoy the outdoors safely while safeguarding your skin from the sun's damaging effects.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a dynamic and vibrant midday sun. Starting at 07:00, the UV levels are negligible at 0, slowly rising to 1 by 08:00. As the clock ticks towards 10:00, the intensity escalates to 4, reaching its peak at 12:00 with a robust 7. This high level of UV radiation continues until 14:00, when it slightly declines to 6. As the afternoon progresses, it tapers off, dropping to 4 at 15:00, and further decreasing to 2 by 16:00. The evening ushers in a calming effect, with levels settling back to 1 at 17:00 and 18:00, before retreating to 0 by 19:00. This pattern emphasizes the importance of sun protection during the daylight hours, especially when the index peaks at midday.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index varies significantly throughout the year, with the highest levels occurring from January to April, where it reaches a striking 16, classified as extreme, meaning a burn time of just 10 minutes. February and March maintain this heightened risk, while April sees a slight drop to 12 but remains in the extreme category. As spring transitions into summer, the risk decreases, with May and June exhibiting very high to high levels with burn times increasing to 15-25 minutes. However, September to November sees a resurgence in risk, particularly with 12 in September, 14 in October, and peaking at 15 in November, all maintaining the extreme classification. December equals January’s maximum UV risk of 16. Therefore, whether you’re a visitor or resident, it is crucial to be vigilant about sun protection, particularly during high-risk months from January to April, and again in September through November. Always apply sunscreen generously and seek shade during peak hours to minimize the risk of UV-related harm.
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 |
| 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 |
| Ghanzi | 16 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 7 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 16 |