Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Botlhapatlou, Botswana is crucial for protecting your skin against harmful sun exposure. With the region's BSh climate, residents and visitors alike can experience varying levels of UV radiation throughout the day. Notably, UV levels peak between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, reaching a maximum of 7, which signifies a high risk of sunburn and potential skin damage. By being aware of these UV levels, you can take essential precautions to safeguard your skin health while enjoying the beautiful Botswana sun. Stay informed and protect yourself—your skin will thank you!
The UV Index data reveals a significant fluctuation in solar intensity throughout the day. Starting at 07:00, the index registers a low 1, indicating minimal risk. As the sun climbs higher, it peaks dramatically at 12:00 with a 7, categorizing it as high. This midday zenith is crucial for outdoor activities; however, caution is advised. The afternoon sees a slight decline, dropping to 3 by 15:00, and eventually receding to 0 after 18:00. Thus, while the early hours offer safe sun exposure, midday warrants protective measures to shield against harmful UV rays.
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 3 | 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 |
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 |