Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Graaff-Reinet, South Africa is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. As this picturesque town experiences a semi-arid climate (BSk), residents and visitors alike must pay attention to the daily UV levels—especially during the peak hours between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM when the risk of sunburn is highest. By being aware of the UV Index, you can take proactive steps to prevent sun damage, ensuring vibrant skin health and reducing the risk of long-term issues. Don't underestimate the sun's rays; stay informed and enjoy the great outdoors safely in this beautiful region!
The UV Index throughout the day experiences a notable progression, starting from a maximum of 0 at 07:00, indicating minimal UV exposure. As the morning unfolds, it gradually rises, reaching 1 by 08:00 and staying steady at this level until 09:00. The sun’s intensity escalates sharply, peaking at 4 between 11:00 and 13:00, highlighting the importance of sun protection during these hours. Just after peak exposure, the index dips slightly to 3 at 14:00 before decreasing further to 2 by 15:00. The final hours see a steady decline, falling back to 1 at 16:00 and 17:00, before returning to 0 by 18:00, signaling the end of the day. This data emphasizes the need for awareness and protection during midday hours when UV radiation is at its highest.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 4 | 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index displays significant seasonal changes, with the highest risk occurring in the winter months of January, February, and December, where indices peak at 15 and indicate an extreme exposure category with a burn time of just 10 minutes. Following closely, March also remains a high-risk month with a UV Index of 12. In the transition to spring, April and September present very high levels, with indices of 9 and 10, respectively, and burn times reducing to 15 minutes. As summer approaches, UV radiation decreases to a moderate level in June and July, dropping to 4 and allowing for longer exposure times. May and August are categorized as high risk months, with indices of 6, suggesting a burn time of 25 minutes. As the year wraps up, October and November revert to extreme levels (12 and 13) with burn times of 10 minutes once again. Visitors and residents are advised to take protective measures, especially during high-risk months, by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, and limiting outdoor exposure during peak UV hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cape Town UVI | 14 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 14 |
| Durban UVI | 14 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 15 |
| Graaff-Reinet | 15 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 4 | 6 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 15 |
| Johannesburg UVI | 15 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 7 | 6 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 16 |
| Pretoria UVI | 16 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 7 | 6 | 6 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 16 |
| Soweto UVI | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 7 | 6 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 13 | 15 | 16 |