Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Pandamatenga, Botswana, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and promoting overall health. Understanding UV levels helps prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage, especially during the intense midday hours when the index is highest, peaking at 9 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM. Given Pandamatenga's semi-arid climate and high UV exposure risks, it's essential to stay informed and take protective measures. By monitoring the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors while keeping your skin protected from harmful rays.
Throughout the day, the UV Index displays a dynamic pattern of intensity, peaking at 12:00 PM with a value of 9, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Early in the morning, from 07:00 to 09:00, the index remains low, starting at 1 and rising to 4. As the sun climbs higher, the intensity escalates rapidly; by 10:00 AM, it reaches 6, before hitting its crescendo at 11:00 AM with an 8. The afternoon holds steady, with a slight decline to 7 by 02:00 PM, then tapering off as the sun begins its descent. By 16:00 PM, the index drops to 2, and by the evening, it falls to 0 after 18:00 PM. This data highlights the importance of sun protection during peak hours, particularly between 11:00 AM and 02:00 PM. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine wisely!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | 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 |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, peaking during the first few months of the year with extremely high levels, reaching a maximum of 17 in January. The months of January through April consistently present extreme exposure risks, necessitating vigilant sun protection as the burn time is only 10 minutes. As the year progresses, the UV Index remains notably high from May to August, with levels classified as very high, where the burn time extends to 15 minutes. In September through November, the index again shifts to extreme levels, emphasizing the need for caution with burn times reverting back to 10 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly encouraged to take preventive measures, such as wearing sunscreen and protective clothing, particularly during the high-risk months of October, November, and the early months of the year, when UV exposure can lead to rapid sunburn.
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 |
| Pandamatenga | 17 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 15 |