Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Quthing, Lesotho, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding skin health and preventing sunburn, especially in its Cfb climate, characterized by moderate temperatures and high altitude exposure. With UV levels peaking at a significant 5 around noon, awareness of these fluctuations can empower residents and visitors alike to take proactive measures against UV-related skin damage. By keeping an eye on the UV Index throughout the day, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors of Quthing while protecting your skin from harmful rays, ensuring a healthy life under the sun.
The UV Index throughout the day follows a distinct pattern, with the intensity peaking at 12:00 PM when it reaches a noteworthy level of 5. Morning hours start off mild, with values of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, gradually escalating to 2 by 09:00, then climbing to 4 at 11:00. Post-noon, the index slightly decreases, falling to 4 again at 13:00, before tapering off to 2 by 15:00. As the day winds down, the levels drop significantly, plunging to 0 by 19:00. This highlights the importance of sun protection during the midday hours when UV radiation is at its strongest.
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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
12:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
13:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
14:00 | 3 | 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 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 | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Quthing | 16 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 5 | 8 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 16 |
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 |