UV Index in Mthatha, South Africa

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Mthatha, South Africa, staying aware of the UV Index is crucial for your health and well-being. Understanding UV levels helps you take proactive measures against sunburn and long-term skin damage. With a Cfb climate, Mthatha enjoys mild weather, but UV exposure can still peak during the day, particularly between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, when the index reaches levels of 4. By knowing the UV Index, you can effectively plan your outdoor activities, ensuring you protect your skin while enjoying the beautiful South African sun.

Hourly UV Index in Mthatha

The UV Index for the day reveals a gradual increase in solar intensity as the sun climbs higher. Starting from a mild 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, the index nudges to 2 by 09:00 and peaks at 4 between 11:00 and 13:00, indicating a notable amount of UV exposure. As the afternoon progresses, the value slightly tapers off to 3 at 14:00 and dwindles down to 2 by 15:00. The evening brings a steep decline, with the index dropping to 1 at 16:00 and then to 0 after 18:00. Stay protected during the midday hours when the UV Index is at its highest!

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	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Mthatha

Seasonal changes in UV exposure reveal significant variations throughout the year, with high-risk months from January to March and notably October and November, featuring extreme UV Index levels of 15 and 14. During these months, burn times are as short as 10 minutes, necessitating heightened precaution. As spring approaches, the UV Index gradually decreases, reaching a moderate level in June and July, but increases again in August and September to high and very high levels. Residents and visitors should remain vigilant, particularly from October through March, ensuring proper sun protection measures such as broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours. Always check local UV Index readings to stay protected throughout the year.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Mthatha, South Africa

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Mthatha. 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 Mthatha, 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 Mthatha UV Index with Other South Africa Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Mthatha compares to other major locations across South Africa. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Mthatha's solar exposure compared to other cities in South Africa. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
Mthatha	15	14	12	9	6	4	4	7	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