UV Index in Thaba-Tseka, Lesotho

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Thaba-Tseka, Lesotho, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for ensuring your skin’s health and preventing sunburn. Understanding the UV levels throughout the day helps residents and visitors alike to take appropriate sun safety measures, especially during the peak hours when exposure can be most harmful. Nestled in a Cwb climate zone, Thaba-Tseka experiences varying UV index levels, peaking at a 6 around midday, which necessitates awareness and caution. By being knowledgeable about local UV conditions, you can protect yourself from potential skin damage and enjoy the sun safely.

Hourly UV Index in Thaba-Tseka

The UV Index today showcased a notable increase from the early morning hours, starting at a gentle 1 at 07:00 and 08:00. As the sun rose higher in the sky, the index climbed steadily, reaching a significant 6 by 12:00, indicating a peak in UV radiation and the need for sun protection. The afternoon saw a slight decline, with values dropping to 4 at 14:00 and falling further to 2 by 15:00. As the day wound down, the UV index returned to a safer range, ending the day at 0 by 19:00. It’s crucial to stay informed and safeguard your skin during those high UV hours!

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	4	moderate	30 min
11:00	5	moderate	30 min
12:00	6	high	25 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 Thaba-Tseka

The UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal changes, with extreme exposure levels peaking in the winter and late fall months. Notably, from January to March and in September, October, and November, the UV Index remains at 16-17, indicating an extreme risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. In contrast, May to July sees a decline in UV intensity, transitioning from high to moderate levels, where burn times vary from 25 to 30 minutes. However, August resurfaces with a high UV Index of 8, classified as very high, again reducing burn time to 15 minutes. Given these fluctuations, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to take protective measures, especially during the high-risk months of April, August, September, October, and November, by wearing adequate sun protection and limiting direct sun exposure during peak hours to prevent skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Thaba-Tseka, Lesotho

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Thaba-Tseka 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.

Thaba-Tseka'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 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
Thaba-Tseka	16	16	14	11	7	5	6	8	12	13	15	17