Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Mohale's Hoek, Lesotho, where the Cfb climate brings unique sunshine patterns and potential risks for skin health. With UV levels peaking at 7 around midday, awareness can significantly help in preventing sunburn and reducing the long-term risks associated with excessive sun exposure. Recognizing daily UV fluctuations enables individuals to take precautionary measures, ensuring a healthier and more enjoyable experience under the sun. Stay informed to protect your skin in this beautiful region!
The UV index for the day shows a gradual increase in intensity, peaking at 12:00 PM with a notably high value of 7. Starting the morning with a mild index of 1 at 07:00 AM and 08:00 AM, the UV levels began to rise significantly by 09:00 AM, reaching 3. It escalated further to 4 by 10:00 AM, and by 11:00 AM, the index hit 6, indicating a need for sun protection. The most intense UV exposure occurs at 12:00 PM, where the index reaches its maximum at 7 before starting to decline in the afternoon. Post 1:00 PM, the values dropped to 6, then fell to 4 at 02:00 PM, and continued retreating to 3 by 03:00 PM. As the sun sets, the UV index returns to 1 by 04:00 PM and winds down to 0 in the evening hours, from 06:00 PM onwards. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine, but remember to take precautions during peak hours!
| 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 | 4 | 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 |
The UV Index experiences notable seasonal variation, with January through March and September to November classified as high-risk months due to extreme exposure levels, where the burn time is as low as 10 minutes. April marks a transition to very high UV levels, while May and June provide moderate exposure risks, with burn times extending to 25 and 30 minutes, respectively. August sees a rise back to very high levels, and the cycle recommences with extreme levels in October and December. Visitors and residents are advised to take extra precautions during high-risk months, including seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen to minimize the risk of UV-related health issues. Always be mindful of the UV Index and adjust outdoor activities accordingly.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mohale's Hoek | 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 |
| 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 |