Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Ballito, South Africa, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn. With the region's mild Cfa climate, the sun can be deceptively strong, especially during peak hours when UV levels reach a maximum of 4 between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM. Understanding these fluctuations enables residents and visitors to take appropriate precautions against harmful UV rays, ensuring that outdoor activities remain enjoyable while minimizing the risk of long-term skin damage. Embrace the sun wisely and keep your skin protected!
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!
| 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 |
Throughout the year, UV radiation levels fluctuate significantly, peaking in the extreme category during winter months. January, February, and March are notable high-risk months with UV Index values of 14, 13, and 12, respectively, leading to a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. As we transition into spring, April sees a slight drop to 9 (very high), but exposure remains concerning, particularly with a burn time of only 15 minutes. By May and August, the UV Index modulates to 6 and 7 (high), allowing for slightly longer burn times of 25 minutes. September returns to a very high category at 9, necessitating caution. The trend towards lower UV levels continues into the summer months, with June and July classified as moderate but still requiring vigilance. By the end of the year, October and November see a resurgence in extreme UV levels at 11 and 12, respectively, maintaining a dangerous 10-minute burn time. Finally, December records the highest UV Index at 15, emphasizing the need for protective measures year-round. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to stay informed and use adequate sun protection, especially during high-risk months.
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 |
| Ballito | 14 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 15 |
| 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 |