UV Index in Shakawe, Botswana

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Shakawe, Botswana, where the sun shines brightly throughout the year. With peak UV levels reaching 8 during midday, awareness of these levels is essential for effective sunburn prevention and maintaining long-term skin health. Shakawe’s semi-arid climate (BSh) exposes individuals to heightened UV risks, particularly during the summer months. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the sun safely while protecting your skin from harmful effects.

Hourly UV Index in Shakawe

During the day, the UV Index displays a clear progression, peaking in intensity as time goes on. At 7:00 AM, the index starts at a modest level of 1, indicating minimal risk. By 10:00 AM, it rises sharply to 5, signaling a need for sun protection. The index reaches its zenith between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM at a notable 8, suggesting that precautions are essential during these hours to prevent skin damage. As the afternoon progresses, it begins to wane, dropping to 6 by 2:00 PM and declining further through the afternoon, reaching 0 by 6:00 PM. Such fluctuations highlight the importance of monitoring UV levels throughout the day to stay safe while enjoying the sun.

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	2	low	45 min
10:00	5	moderate	30 min
11:00	7	high	25 min
12:00	8	very high	15 min
13:00	8	very high	15 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

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