Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Botlhapatlou, Botswana is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With a climate characterized by hot, semi-arid conditions (BSh), residents and visitors alike face varying levels of UV exposure throughout the day. Awareness of the UV levels, which peak between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM with a notable index of 6, empowers individuals to take essential precautions to safeguard their skin. By monitoring the UV Index, you can ensure enjoyable outdoor experiences while minimizing the risks associated with overexposure to sunlight.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index begins to rise, peaking sharply around midday. From a gentle 1 at 7 AM, it escalates to a moderate 6 between 11 AM and 1 PM, signaling peak sun exposure. During these crucial hours, it's essential to protect your skin with sunscreen and wear appropriate clothing. As the afternoon progresses, the intensity wanes, dropping to 4 at 2 PM and further declining to 3 by 3 PM. By 4 PM, it returns to a safe 1, and finally settles to 0 after sunset, making late afternoon and evening hours ideal for outdoor activities without the risk of UV damage. Stay informed and enjoy the sun responsibly!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
12:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
13:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
14:00 | 4 | 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 |
The UV Index experiences significant seasonal changes, peaking at 16 during the winter months of January, February, and December, and remaining high throughout March, April, September, October, and November. High-risk months for UV exposure include January, February, and March, where the extreme exposure category necessitates a mere 10-minute burn time. Visitors and residents are advised to take extra precautions during these months by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and seeking shade whenever possible. As the UV Index decreases slightly in June and July, where it falls to 6 and 7 respectively, and then returns to 9 in August, it remains essential to stay vigilant and maintain sun-safety practices year-round.
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 |
Botlhapatlou | 16 | 16 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 14 | 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 |