Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Sehithwa, Botswana, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. Understanding the UV levels can significantly help in preventing sunburn and reducing the risk of long-term skin damage, especially during the peak hours of sun exposure. With a BSh climate, Sehithwa experiences high UV risks, particularly from late morning to early afternoon when the index soars to levels 7. Being informed about these fluctuations allows residents and visitors to enjoy the sunny days while taking necessary precautions. Always keep an eye on the UV Index, so you can protect your skin and embrace the beauty of Botswana safely!
Throughout the day, the UV Index showcases a dynamic pattern of intensity. Starting at a gentle 1 by 07:00, the index gradually rises, reaching a moderate 2 by 09:00. As the sun climbs higher, a notable increase occurs, peaking at an elevated 7 from 12:00 to 13:00, marking the day's most intense UV exposure. The index then begins its descent, dipping to 4 by 15:00 and further down to 2 by 16:00. As evening approaches, the UV risk diminishes, with values dropping to 0 at 18:00 and remaining low for the rest of the evening. It's essential to stay protected during those peak midday hours when UV exposure can be at its strongest!
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 6 | 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, with the highest readings occurring from January to April, where it ranges from 14 to 16 and is classified as extreme, necessitating a burn time of only 10 minutes. September through November also presents extreme UV levels, with values between 13 and 15 and a similar burn time. Conversely, the summer months of May to August see a decrease, transitioning to very high UV levels from 9 to 10, allowing for slightly longer exposure times of up to 15 to 25 minutes in June. Visitors and residents are advised to exercise caution during the high-risk months of January through April and September through November by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade as needed to mitigate the risk of skin damage. It is essential to stay informed and prioritise sun safety 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 |
| Sehithwa | 16 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 15 |
| Maun UVI | 16 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 15 |