Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Sekoma, Botswana, where the climate boasts warm temperatures and abundant sunshine. With UV levels peaking at 7 around midday, staying informed helps you take essential precautions to prevent sunburn and support skin health. By being aware of daily UV variations, you can enjoy outdoor activities safely while minimizing the risks associated with exposure, especially during the sun's most intense hours. Remember, a little knowledge can go a long way in protecting your skin in this radiant corner of Botswana!
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 |
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 |
Sekoma | 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 |