Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Bulembu, Eswatini, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn. With its Cwa climate, characterized by warm summers and cooler winters, residents and visitors alike need to be vigilant about UV exposure, especially during peak hours. Throughout the day, UV levels can rise significantly, reaching a maximum of 5 around noon—an indicator to take proactive measures such as wearing sunscreen or protective clothing. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the sun responsibly while minimizing the risks posed by harmful UV rays.
The UV Index for today reveals a dynamic day filled with fluctuating sun exposure. Early morning hours start off mild, with levels at 1 from 07:00 to 08:00, ideal for gentle outdoor activities. As the sun climbs, the index rises to 2 by 09:00 and peaks at 5 between 11:00 and 13:00, signaling a strong need for sunscreen and protective gear during midday. Fortunately, the intensity begins to dip after 14:00, descending back to 3 and eventually settling at 1 by late afternoon. As twilight approaches, the UV Index falls to 0, providing a safe window for evening strolls. Remember to stay protected when the sun is 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 16:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV exposure varies significantly, with the highest levels occurring during the extreme exposure months of January, February, March, October, November, and December. These months feature UV Index values between 15 and 16, with very short burn times of just 10 minutes. As spring approaches, April sees a decrease to a very high index of 10, extending the burn time to 15 minutes. In May, the UV Index drops further to 7 (high), allowing for 25 minutes of safe sun exposure. Summer months, particularly June and July, show moderate to high levels of UV radiation, with burn times of 30 and 25 minutes, respectively. As August and September approach, the UV Index rises again to 8 and 10, maintaining a very high exposure category. To protect themselves, residents and visitors are advised to take extra precautions during these high-risk months, particularly by seeking shade and using sunscreen, especially during the peak UV times.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Big Bend UVI | 15 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 12 | 13 | 14 |
| Manzini UVI | 15 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 15 |
| Nhlangano UVI | 15 | 15 | 13 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 13 | 13 | 15 |
| Malkerns UVI | 16 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 13 | 13 | 15 |
| Mbabane UVI | 16 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 13 | 13 | 15 |
| Bulembu | 16 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 13 | 13 | 15 |