Last updated: July 2, 2025
In the picturesque region of Qacha's Nek, Lesotho, understanding the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With its Cwb climate, characterized by mild temperatures and high levels of solar radiation, Qacha's Nek residents and visitors must stay informed about daily UV levels to make safe choices about sun exposure. During peak hours, especially from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, the UV Index can reach levels 5, signaling an increased risk of harm without proper protection. By staying aware of these UV levels, you can enjoy your time outdoors while safeguarding your skin from the sun's powerful rays.
Starting your day early has its perks, as the UV Index remains quite low—hovering between 1 and 2 from 07:00 to 09:00. However, as the sun rises higher, expect a noticeable increase in UV exposure. By 11:00, the index peaks at a robust 5, indicating a need for protection, especially around midday when it stays elevated at 5 until 13:00. Post-noon, the index begins to taper off, dropping back to 4 by 14:00 and down to 1 as evening approaches from 16:00 onward, where it finally settles at 0 by 18:00. To enjoy your day safely, consider applying sunscreen during the peak hours!
| 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 | 4 | 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 |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, with the highest values occurring in the winter and fall months. January, February, and March all see an extreme UV Index of 16, where a mere 10 minutes of exposure can lead to burns. April follows closely with a UV Index of 11, also categorized as extreme. In contrast, during the summer months, particularly June and July, the UV Index drops to 5, indicating a moderate risk. However, August sees a resurgence, with a very high index of 8 and a burn time of only 15 minutes. As the year ends, September through November returns to extreme levels, peaking in December with a UV Index of 17. Given these fluctuations, it is crucial for visitors and residents to remain vigilant, especially from January through April and again in September to December. Always apply sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade to minimize harmful UV exposure during these high-risk months.
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 |
| 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 |
| Qacha's Nek | 16 | 16 | 14 | 11 | 7 | 5 | 5 | 8 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 17 |