UV Index in Johannesburg, South Africa

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Johannesburg, South Africa, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With the sun’s intensity varying throughout the day, knowing the UV levels can help you take proactive measures against sunburn and long-term skin damage. Johannesburg's unique Cwb climate brings elevated UV exposure, especially during the midday hours when the index peaks at 7. Stay informed and equipped to enjoy the sun safely while preserving your skin’s well-being!

Hourly UV Index in Johannesburg

As the sun rises, the UV Index remains low at 1 from 07:00 to 08:00, offering a gentle start to the day. However, as the hours progress, the intensity increases, reaching 3 by 09:00 and peaking at 7 between 11:00 and 13:00. This midday surge signifies the sun's powerful rays, urging everyone to take precautions for skin protection. As the afternoon wanes, the UV Index begins to decline, dropping to 5 at 14:00, and further decreasing to 3 by 15:00. The evening brings relief, with the index falling to 1 by 16:00 and 0 from 18:00 onward. Embrace the early hours for outdoor activities, but stay vigilant during lunchtime when the sun is at its strongest!

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	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Johannesburg

Throughout the year, UV index levels fluctuate significantly, with extreme risks predominating in the high-risk months of January, February, March, September, October, November, and December. During these months, the UV Index reaches levels as high as 16, indicating a 10-minute burn time for unprotected skin. In contrast, the UV Index decreases in the middle of the year, with May to July experiencing a high category (UV Index 6-7) and 25-minute burn time. As summer ends, the UV Index rises again in August to 8, presenting a very high risk. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautionary measures during high UV months by applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure, particularly during peak hours. Awareness of these seasonal changes is crucial for maintaining skin health year-round.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Johannesburg, South Africa

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Johannesburg 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.

Johannesburg'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
Johannesburg	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