Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Leribe, Lesotho is vital for maintaining optimal skin health and preventing sunburn. With varying UV levels, particularly peaking at midday, being aware of these changes can help residents and visitors protect themselves from harmful effects. Leribe’s Cwb climate often results in high UV exposure during peak hours, making it crucial to monitor daily UV readings. By staying informed, you can enjoy the sun responsibly and safeguard your skin against potential damage.
The UV Index today showcased a notable increase from the early morning hours, starting at a gentle 1 at 07:00 and 08:00. As the sun rose higher in the sky, the index climbed steadily, reaching a significant 6 by 12:00, indicating a peak in UV radiation and the need for sun protection. The afternoon saw a slight decline, with values dropping to 4 at 14:00 and falling further to 2 by 15:00. As the day wound down, the UV index returned to a safer range, ending the day at 0 by 19:00. It’s crucial to stay informed and safeguard your skin during those high UV hours!
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 | 6 | high | 25 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 |
Throughout the year, seasonal variations in UV Index levels highlight significant high-risk months for sun exposure. From January to April, the UV Index remains at extreme levels (16-13), with a burn time of just 10 minutes—making these the most critical months for sun safety. As the year progresses, May sees a drop to a high category (UV Index 7) with a burn time of 25 minutes, while June offers a moderate level (UV Index 5) allowing for 30 minutes of somewhat safer exposure. However, the UV risk escalates again in July (high, UV Index 6) and August (very high, UV Index 8), where burn times shrink to 25 and 15 minutes, respectively. The fall months, notably September and October, return to extreme indices, coupled with a burn time of 10 minutes. November also presents considerable risk with a UV Index of 14. Finally, December returns to extreme levels. Therefore, visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during periods of high or extreme UV exposure, particularly from January to April and again during September through November, using sunscreen, protective clothing, and limiting direct sun exposure 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 |
Leribe | 16 | 16 | 13 | 11 | 7 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 16 |
Maputsoe UVI | 16 | 16 | 13 | 11 | 7 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 16 |