Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Bronkhorstspruit, South Africa, is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With a climate characterized by significant UV exposure, particularly during peak hours between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM when the UV Index reaches a maximum of 7, residents and visitors must stay informed to protect themselves. Awareness of UV levels not only helps in enjoying outdoor activities safely but also plays a vital role in long-term skin health. By recognizing the UV risks in this region, you can take proactive measures to ensure your time under the sun remains enjoyable and safe.
The UV Index throughout the day paints a vivid picture of sun intensity, starting at a modest 1 at 07:00 and gradually climbing to its peak of 7 from 11:00 to 13:00. This high level signifies a heightened risk for prolonged sun exposure, perfect for sun lovers but cautionary for the rest. From the peak, the index starts to dip, dropping to 5 at 14:00 and dwindling to 1 by 16:00. As the sun begins to set, the UV Index plummets to 0 by 18:00 and remains in the safe zone through the evening. Plan your outdoor activities wisely, ensuring midday sun protection while enjoying the earlier and later hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 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, UV exposure varies significantly, with extreme UV Index levels observed from January to March and again in September to November. Notably, January and December each reach a peak UV Index of 16, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. The transition months of April and August present very high exposure conditions, while May to July see a shift to high categories, allowing slightly longer burn times of 25 minutes. As the sun’s intensity increases, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to take protective measures, especially during the high-risk months of January, February, March, September, October, and November. Umbrellas, sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours are highly recommended to ensure safety against the harmful effects of UV radiation.
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 |
| 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 |
| Bronkhorstspruit | 16 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 7 | 6 | 6 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 16 |