Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Tshane, Botswana, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful ultraviolet rays. Understanding UV levels helps residents and visitors alike take proactive measures in preventing sunburn and protecting long-term skin health. With a climate characterized by high temperatures and strong sun exposure, Tshane experiences notable UV risks, particularly during midday hours when the index can soar to 7. Staying informed about these daily fluctuations can empower the community to enjoy the sun responsibly and maintain healthy skin.
As the sun rises and the day unfolds, the UV Index experiences a steady climb. Starting the day at a cool 0 at 07:00, the index rises to a modest 1 by 08:00. By 09:00, it ticks up to 2, signaling that protection is becoming more necessary. The intensity peaks sharply at 12:00 and 13:00, where it reaches its maximum level of 7, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the afternoon sun begins to wane, the index gracefully declines, dropping to 5 at 14:00 and 4 by 15:00. The evening brings relief, with levels sinking to 2 by 16:00, further down to 1 at 17:00, and finally returning to 0 as night falls at 19:00. Protecting oneself from the sun becomes crucial during those midday hours to enjoy the beauty of the day safely!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 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 |
Throughout the year, UV index levels fluctuate significantly, with extreme exposure categories dominating from January to April and again in September to November. The months of January, February, March, April, September, October, and November each exhibit a UV index of 13 or higher, marking them as high-risk months where sunburn can occur in 10 minutes or less. From May to August, the UV index decreases slightly, reaching its lowest point of 6 in June and July, though these months still warrant caution, especially in May and August with very high levels, indicating a 15-minute burn time. It is crucial for both visitors and residents to take protective measures, such as wearing sunscreen and protective clothing, particularly during the spring and fall months, to minimize the risk of skin damage.
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 |
| Tshane | 16 | 16 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 16 |
| 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 |