UV Index in Mafeteng, Lesotho

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Mafeteng, Lesotho, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful sun exposure. Understanding the levels of UV radiation is essential not only for preventing painful sunburns but also for maintaining long-term skin health. With its temperate climate, Mafeteng typically experiences varying UV levels throughout the day, peaking at 7 around noon. This makes it important for residents and visitors alike to monitor the UV Index and adopt protective measures, especially during the most intense hours. Stay informed and enjoy the beautiful sun safely!

Hourly UV Index in Mafeteng

The UV Index data for the day reveals a dynamic pattern of sun exposure. Starting off at a low level, both 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM maintain a mere index of 1, indicating minimal UV radiation. As the sun climbs higher, 9:00 AM sees the index rise to 3, gradually peaking at 12:00 PM with an intense 7, suggesting it's time for sun protection. The afternoon hours show a slight decline, with 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM still holding strong at 6 and 5 respectively. As the day winds down, the index drops sharply after 3:00 PM, falling back to a 1 by 4:00 PM and eventually reaching 0 by 6:00 PM, marking a safe return from the sun's harsh rays. It's a reminder of the importance of sun safety during those midday hours!

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	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	4	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Mafeteng

Throughout the year, UV levels exhibit significant seasonal fluctuations. The high-risk months for UV exposure are from December to March, during which the UV Index reaches extreme levels of 15 to 16 and burn times are as short as 10 minutes. September and November also show elevated UV risks, with indices of 11 to 14. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during these months, such as wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, while seeking shade during peak hours. As UV exposure decreases in the late spring and summer months, it's still important to remain vigilant, particularly in April and August, where the UV Index can still reach very high levels.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Mafeteng, Lesotho

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Mafeteng. 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 Mafeteng, 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 Mafeteng UV Index with Other Lesotho Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Mafeteng compares to other major locations across Lesotho. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Mafeteng's solar exposure compared to other cities in Lesotho. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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	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