Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Dutlwe, Botswana, where the warm BSh climate brings long hours of sunlight. Awareness of UV levels plays a vital role in preventing sunburn and protecting skin health, making it essential to stay informed about daily fluctuations. With peak UV exposure occurring between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, reaching levels as high as 7, it’s important to take precautions during these times to mitigate risks. Knowing the UV Index can empower you to enjoy the sun safely and maintain healthy skin for years to come.
The UV Index highlights a dynamic shift in sun exposure throughout the day. Starting off at a modest level of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, the intensity gradually increases, peaking at 7 from 12:00 to 13:00, indicating high risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the afternoon progresses, the index dips to 5 at 14:00 before gracefully descending to 3 by 15:00. The day winds down with the UV Index returning to its initial levels at 1 by 17:00, and then falling to 0 after 18:00, marking a safe end to sun exposure. It's a clear reminder to plan sun protection strategies, especially during the peak hours when the index reaches its zenith!
| 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 | 7 | 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 |
During the year, the UV Index fluctuates significantly, highlighting seasonal variations in UV exposure. The highest risk months occur in the winter and late fall, with January, February, March, April, September, October, November, and December all registering as extreme (UV Index 11-16) where burn times can be as short as 10 minutes. Conversely, mid to late spring and summer months show a gradual decrease in risk, but still pose a threat with very high to high exposure levels; notably, May and August have burn times of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautionary measures during high UV periods, especially from January to April and again in September to November, including wearing protective clothing, broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade to minimize skin damage. Always remain vigilant, regardless of the month, as UV rays can penetrate clouds, and skin protection is crucial 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 |
| Dutlwe | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 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 |