UV Index in Maseru, Lesotho

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Maseru, Lesotho, being aware of the UV Index is vital for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels helps residents and visitors easily comprehend sun exposure risks, especially when it comes to preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage. Maseru, with its Cwb climate, experiences varying UV exposure throughout the day, peaking at midday when the index reaches levels of 5. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can take the right precautions to enjoy the sun safely while safeguarding your skin's health.

Hourly UV Index in Maseru

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!

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	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

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