Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Butha-Buthe, Lesotho is crucial for protecting your skin against harmful ultraviolet rays. With the region's Cwb climate, which brings a mix of sunny days and varying altitudes, awareness of UV levels can help prevent sunburn and promote overall skin health. During peak hours, particularly from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, UV levels can reach as high as 5, emphasizing the need for sun protection. Whether you’re enjoying the outdoors or going about your daily routine, being informed about the UV Index empowers you to make smart decisions to safeguard your skin.
Today's UV Index presents an interesting daytime pattern. Early risers at 07:00 will experience a low UV Index of 1, which remains steady until 09:00. As the day unfolds, the index climbs to 3 by 10:00, reaching a peak of 5 from 11:00 to 13:00 — a reminder to take sun safety precautions during midday hours. Post-lunchtime, the UV intensity gradually decreases, dropping to 4 at 14:00 and eventually down to 1 by 16:00. By the time the sun sets, the UV Index falls to 0 at 18:00, making for a safe evening outdoors. Remember, protecting your skin during the peak UV hours is essential for staying safe under the sun!
| 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 4 | 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 |
The UV Index reveals significant seasonal variations in sun exposure, peaking during the early months of the year. January through April consistently shows extreme UV levels, with a burn time of just 10 minutes, making these the highest risk months for sunburn. In May and July, the index is categorized as high, allowing slightly longer burn times of 25 minutes, while June sees a dip to moderate levels with a burn time of 30 minutes. The summer months transition into very high UV in August, where the burn time shortens to 15 minutes. As the year winds down, September through November return to extreme levels, with burn times back to 10 minutes. Finally, December stands out with a UV Index of 17, reinforcing the need for vigilance. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to protect their skin, particularly from January to April and during late September to November, by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mohale's Hoek UVI | 16 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 5 | 8 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 16 |
| Mafeteng UVI | 15 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 5 | 8 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 16 |
| Maseru UVI | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 7 | 5 | 5 | 8 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 16 |
| Maputsoe UVI | 16 | 16 | 13 | 11 | 7 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 16 |
| Leribe UVI | 16 | 16 | 13 | 11 | 7 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 16 |
| Butha-Buthe | 16 | 16 | 14 | 11 | 7 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 17 |