UV Index in Metsemotlhaba, Botswana

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Metsemotlhaba, Botswana, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With a climate that often features hot and sunny days, residents and visitors must be aware of fluctuating UV levels throughout the day to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. During peak hours, like midday, the UV Index can reach as high as 8, signifying a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By staying informed about the local UV indices, you can take proactive measures to safeguard your skin and enjoy the beautiful Botswana sun safely.

Hourly UV Index in Metsemotlhaba

At sunrise, the UV Index begins at a gentle 1 at 07:00, rising gradually as the sun climbs higher. By 09:00, it reaches 3, indicating a moderate level of UV radiation. The heat of the day peaks at 12:00 with a high of 8, suggesting it’s time to seek shade or apply sunscreen. As the afternoon progresses, the index slightly drops to 7 at 13:00 and continues to decline, settling at 3 by 15:00. As the sun starts to set, the risk diminishing to 1 at 17:00 and finally dropping to 0 by 18:00, signaling a safer time for outdoor activities as the day winds down. Be mindful of the midday sun to protect your skin!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	1	low	45 min
08:00	1	low	45 min
09:00	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	5	moderate	30 min
11:00	7	high	25 min
12:00	8	very high	15 min
13:00	7	high	25 min
14:00	6	high	25 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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Metsemotlhaba

The UV Index experiences significant seasonal fluctuations, with the highest levels recorded in the winter and early spring months. From January to April, the UV Index peaks at an extreme level of 16 to 11, necessitating only 10 minutes of exposure before burning occurs. Following this, the index decreases to 8 in May and 6 in June and July, indicating a shift to a very high and high risk. August sees a rise again to 9, before returning to extreme levels of 11 to 16 in the fall and winter months from September to December. Visitors and residents should exercise caution, particularly from January to April and again in September to November, where the UV risk is at its highest. It’s crucial to apply sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and limit sun exposure during these months to prevent skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Metsemotlhaba, Botswana

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Metsemotlhaba. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Metsemotlhaba, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Metsemotlhaba UV Index with Other Botswana Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Metsemotlhaba compares to other major locations across Botswana. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Metsemotlhaba's solar exposure compared to other cities in Botswana. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
Metsemotlhaba	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
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