UV Index in Shakawe, Botswana

Last updated: August 1, 2025

In Shakawe, Botswana, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding skin health under the intense sun. With typical UV levels peaking in the afternoon, understanding these fluctuations helps residents and visitors alike prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. Shakawe's BSh climate often subjects its inhabitants to elevated UV exposure, especially from 10 AM to 3 PM when the index can soar to 8. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors while keeping your skin protected and healthy.

Hourly UV Index in Shakawe

At dawn, the UV Index starts off low, peaking at 1 between 07:00 and 08:00. As the sun rises higher, the intensity increases significantly, reaching 2 by 09:00 and then climbing to a moderate 4 by 10:00. The midday sun brings the highest risk, with the UV Index soaring to 8 from 12:00 to 13:00, indicating a strong need for sun protection. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to decline, dropping to 7 at 14:00, and then gradually easing to 5 at 15:00. By late afternoon, it further diminishes to 2 at 16:00, and finally settles back to a safe 1 by 17:00, tapering off to 0 by 19:00. Overall, the day underscores the importance of being sun-smart, especially during peak hours.

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
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	9	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	6	high	25 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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Shakawe

The UV Index exhibits notable seasonal variations, peaking during the early months of the year. From January to April, the index remains between 13 and 17, classifying these months as extreme and resulting in a quick burn time of just 10 minutes. As we transition into May and June, the index drops slightly to 10 and 8, aligning with a very high exposure category and a burn time of 15 minutes. Notably, September returns to extreme levels at 12, while October and November maintain an extreme status with numbers around 13 to 15. Throughout this period, residents and visitors should take extra precautions, especially between January and April and again in September to November, by using adequate sun protection, including sunscreen, sunglasses, and protective clothing, to minimize the risk of UV-related health issues.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Shakawe, Botswana

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Shakawe. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Shakawe, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Shakawe UV Index with Other Botswana Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Shakawe compares to other major locations across Botswana. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Shakawe's solar exposure compared to other cities in Botswana. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
Shakawe	17	16	14	13	10	8	8	10	12	13	15	15