Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Khudumelapye, Botswana is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health in this sun-soaked region. With the climate classified as BSh, residents and visitors alike should be aware of the varying UV levels throughout the day, particularly during the peak hours from 10 AM to 2 PM, when the index can soar as high as 6. By keeping track of UV exposure, you can effectively prevent sunburn and reduce the long-term risks of skin damage. Whether you’re exploring the local landscape or enjoying outdoor activities, knowing the UV Index empowers you to take proactive steps for your skin health.
The UV Index for the day shows a notable increase in solar intensity as the morning unfolds. Starting at a mild 1 between 07:00 and 09:00, the index rises sharply, peaking at 6 from 11:00 to 13:00. This is a clear indication that midday sun demands caution, with later hours dropping to 5 at 14:00 and gradually decreasing toward evening. By 18:00 and 19:00, the UV Index dips to 0, signaling a safe time to be outdoors without sun protection. Overall, this day encourages sun safety practices during those peak hours when the UV rays are most potent.
| 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 | 5 | 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 |
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 |
| Khudumelapye | 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 |