UV Index in Mthatha, South Africa

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Mthatha, South Africa, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and maintaining overall health. Understanding UV levels is essential, as higher indices can lead to painful sunburns and long-term skin damage. With its Cfb climate, Mthatha experiences varied UV exposure throughout the day, peaking between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM with indices reaching up to 4. By staying informed about local UV conditions, you can take proactive measures to enjoy the sun safely, ensuring a healthier and more enjoyable outdoor experience.

Hourly UV Index in Mthatha

The UV Index today rises steadily, starting at a low 1 in the early hours at 07:00 and 08:00. As the day progresses, it reaches a moderate 2 by 09:00, before peaking at 4 from 11:00 to 13:00. This peak signifies a time when sun protection is essential, especially for outdoor activities. However, by the afternoon, the index begins to decline, dropping back to a 3 at 14:00, and further down to 2 by 15:00. As evening approaches, the UV Index calms down to 1 by 16:00, finally settling at 0 after 17:00. It's a reminder to enjoy the sun while being mindful of its intensity during peak 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	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	0	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