UV Index in Maseru, Lesotho

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Maseru, Lesotho, where the climate is characterized by its mild temperatures and high-altitude sunshine. Regularly monitoring UV levels helps prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage, ensuring better overall skin health. During peak sun hours, particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM, the UV Index can reach levels as high as 7, indicating a significant risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Awareness of these levels is essential to enjoy the sunny days in Maseru while safeguarding your skin against potential threats.

Hourly UV Index in Maseru

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!

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	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Maseru

The UV Index experiences significant seasonal fluctuations, with extreme levels predominantly occurring from January to April and then again in September to November. During these months, the UV Index peaks at values of 15 to 16, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, with a burn time as short as 10 minutes. In contrast, May to July show a decrease to high and moderate levels, with burn times extending to 25-30 minutes. Notably, August marks a return to very high exposure, with a UV Index of 8 and a burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during high-risk months, particularly by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen to minimize the risk of skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Maseru, Lesotho

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Maseru 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.

Maseru'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 UVI	15	15	13	10	7	5	5	8	11	12	14	16
Maseru	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