Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Tarkastad, South Africa, is crucial for protecting your skin and maintaining overall health as you enjoy the sun. With the climate classified as BSk, Tarkastad experiences periods of increased UV exposure, especially during midday hours, when the index peaks at level 5. By being aware of the UV levels, you can take proactive measures to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage, ensuring safe outdoor activities for you and your family. Don't leave your skin's well-being to chance; knowing the UV Index empowers you to make informed decisions while embracing the beautiful South African sun.
The UV Index throughout the day shows a gradual rise and fall, peaking at 12:00 PM with a value of 5, indicating a moderate level of UV exposure. Starting from a safe 0 at 07:00 AM, the index begins to increase, reaching 3 by 10:00 AM and climbing to 4 at 11:00 AM. As the sun reaches its zenith, the UV Index hits its max at 12:00 PM, before gradually declining to 4 at 1:00 PM and then to 3 by 2:00 PM. After that, it gently descends to 1 from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM, before dropping back to 0 by 6:00 PM as the sun sets. Overall, the day presents varied UV levels, reminding us to stay protected during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 0 | 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, with January, February, October, November, and December classified as high-risk months, all falling within the extreme exposure category (UV Index 15-16) and a burn time of just 10 minutes. March surprises with a UV Index of 13, also in the extreme category, while April marks a transition to very high exposure (UV Index 9) and increasing burn time of 15 minutes. The months of May and August feature high levels (UV Index 6 and 7) with corresponding burn times of 25 minutes. As we transition into summer, UV levels drop to moderate (UV Index 4-5) in June and July, with a burn time of 30 minutes. The fall sees a sharp rise again, particularly in September (UV Index 10, very high, 15 mins). To ensure safety from UV exposure, visitors and residents should remain vigilant during these high-risk months, using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, particularly during peak sun 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 |
| Tarkastad | 15 | 15 | 13 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 16 |
| 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 |