UV Index in Estcourt, South Africa

Last updated: August 1, 2025

In Estcourt, South Africa, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful UV radiation. Understanding the daily UV levels helps you take proactive measures to prevent sunburn and protect your overall skin health, particularly during peak exposure hours. Nestled in a Cwb climate zone, Estcourt experiences variable sunlight, with UV levels peaking at 5 around midday—a time when even short outdoor excursions can lead to skin damage. By staying informed about the UV Index, residents can enjoy the sun responsibly while minimizing health risks.

Hourly UV Index in Estcourt

Starting your day early has its perks, as the UV Index remains quite low—hovering between 1 and 2 from 07:00 to 09:00. However, as the sun rises higher, expect a noticeable increase in UV exposure. By 11:00, the index peaks at a robust 5, indicating a need for protection, especially around midday when it stays elevated at 5 until 13:00. Post-noon, the index begins to taper off, dropping back to 4 by 14:00 and down to 1 as evening approaches from 16:00 onward, where it finally settles at 0 by 18:00. To enjoy your day safely, consider applying sunscreen during the peak hours!

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	2	low	45 min
09:00	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	5	moderate	30 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	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 Estcourt

Throughout the year, UV exposure varies significantly, with the highest risk months occurring from January to March and November to December, where the UV Index often reaches extremes of 15 or 16 and can lead to skin burns in just 10 minutes. The spring and fall months also present notable risk; April and August have very high ratings of 10 and 8, respectively, with burn times of 15 minutes. In contrast, May to July offer lower UV levels, peaking at high in May (UV Index 7) but decreasing to moderate (UV Index 5) during the summer months of June and July, allowing for longer exposure times of 25-30 minutes without burning. Visitors and residents should take precautions during high-risk months by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade to minimize UV exposure.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Estcourt, South Africa

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Estcourt 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.

Estcourt'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
Estcourt	15	15	13	10	7	5	5	8	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