Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Bergville, South Africa, where sunny days are abundant due to its Cwb climate. Being aware of UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburn but also plays a vital role in maintaining long-term skin health. With peak UV exposure typically occurring around midday—with levels reaching as high as 6—it's essential for locals to be informed about their UV exposure risks. Taking proactive measures during the summer months can make all the difference in enjoying the outdoors safely!
The UV Index today showcased a notable increase from the early morning hours, starting at a gentle 1 at 07:00 and 08:00. As the sun rose higher in the sky, the index climbed steadily, reaching a significant 6 by 12:00, indicating a peak in UV radiation and the need for sun protection. The afternoon saw a slight decline, with values dropping to 4 at 14:00 and falling further to 2 by 15:00. As the day wound down, the UV index returned to a safer range, ending the day at 0 by 19:00. It’s crucial to stay informed and safeguard your skin during those high UV 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
14:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
15:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index data reveals significant seasonal fluctuations in UV exposure, with January to April and September to November classified as high-risk months, exhibiting an extreme exposure category and a notably brief burn time of only 10 minutes. In particular, December shows a peak UV Index of 17, indicating critical caution is necessary. Conversely, the summer months, May through August, generally present a lower UV Index, with burn times increasing to 25 or 30 minutes, although August has a very high UV Index of 8, urging careful sun protection. Residents and visitors are advised to remain vigilant, using broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during high-risk periods when skin damage can occur rapidly.
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 |
Bergville | 16 | 16 | 13 | 11 | 7 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 17 |
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 |