Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Makaleng, Botswana, is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With frequent high readings, especially around midday when levels peak at 7, awareness of UV exposure can help you prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of long-term skin damage. Nestled in a semi-arid climate (BSh), Makaleng tends to experience intense sunlight, particularly during the warmer months, making it essential for residents and visitors alike to monitor UV levels throughout the day. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can take proactive steps to enjoy the sun safely!
As the sun rises, the UV Index remains low at 1 from 07:00 to 08:00, offering a gentle start to the day. However, as the hours progress, the intensity increases, reaching 3 by 09:00 and peaking at 7 between 11:00 and 13:00. This midday surge signifies the sun's powerful rays, urging everyone to take precautions for skin protection. As the afternoon wanes, the UV Index begins to decline, dropping to 5 at 14:00, and further decreasing to 3 by 15:00. The evening brings relief, with the index falling to 1 by 16:00 and 0 from 18:00 onward. Embrace the early hours for outdoor activities, but stay vigilant during lunchtime when the sun is at its strongest!
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 7 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV exposure dramatically fluctuates, with the highest risk months being January through April, where the UV Index reaches extreme levels of 17 to 12, requiring minimal sun exposure to avoid burns in just 10 minutes. Following this period, May to August sees a slight decrease, with UV Index values ranging from 9 to 10, categorized as very high, allowing for longer exposure times of 15 to 25 minutes. As temperatures drop in September through December, UV Index values remain high, fluctuating between 12 and 15, again necessitating caution with exposure limited to 10 to 15 minutes. To ensure safety, both visitors and residents are advised to take protective measures, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during the highest risk periods. Regularly checking the local UV index and adjusting outdoor activities accordingly is essential to minimize skin damage and promote overall health.
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 |
| 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 |
| Makaleng | 17 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 15 |