Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Leribe, Lesotho, is essential for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With typical UV exposure peaking around noon, awareness of these levels can help prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. The region's Cwb climate features varying weather patterns that can still lead to significant UV rays, especially during the midday hours when readings can reach as high as 7. By staying informed about the UV Index, locals and visitors alike can take the necessary precautions to enjoy the beautiful sun safely while protecting their skin.
At dawn, the UV Index starts off low, with a maximum of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00. As the sun rises higher, it reaches 3 by 09:00, before climbing to a peak of 7 at 12:00. This midday intensity signifies a need for sun protection, especially during the height of the day when UV exposure is most potent. The index begins to decline in the afternoon, dropping to 5 at 14:00 and settling back to 1 by 17:00. By 18:00 and into the evening, the UV Index sharply drops to 0, marking a safe time to enjoy outdoor activities without the risk of sunburn. Stay sun-safe!
| 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 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 |