Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors in Nokaneng, Botswana, as it plays a crucial role in protecting skin health and preventing sunburn. With the region's BSh climate, characterized by hot summers and ample sunshine, awareness of UV levels can significantly impact your outdoor activities. During peak hours, particularly between noon and 2 PM, UV readings can soar to 8, indicating very high levels of solar radiation. Staying informed about these fluctuations is vital to ensure safe sun practices, safeguard against skin damage, and enjoy the beautiful Botswana sun responsibly.
As the sun rises, the UV Index gradually increases, peaking at 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM with a striking 8. Early morning hours see a moderate index of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, providing a gentle start before the intensity ramps up. By 10:00, the index reaches 4, climbing to a noteworthy 6 at 11:00. This midday surge urges beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts to seek shade and apply sunscreen, as the index starts to decline after 1:00 PM. In the afternoon, it dips to 4 at 3:00 PM, before returning to a safe 1 by late afternoon and evening, ending in a soothing 0 at 7:00 PM. Stay sun-safe and enjoy the warmth!
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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV exposure is notably high, particularly from January to April, where the UV Index reaches extreme levels of 17 to 14, allowing only a minimal burn time of 10 minutes. As we transition into May through August, the UV Index decreases slightly but remains in the very high category, with a burn time of 15 minutes. Critical months for UV exposure are clearly highlighted from January to April, and again in September, where the index spikes back to extreme levels. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during these high-risk months by wearing protective clothing, sunscreen, and seeking shade to minimize skin damage. As the UV Index remains significant into the later months, including November and December, daily sun safety practices are essential 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 |
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 |
Nokaneng | 17 | 16 | 14 | 13 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 15 |