Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Impendle, South Africa, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining optimal skin health and preventing sunburn. Understanding UV levels can empower residents and visitors alike to take protective measures during peak sun exposure times, particularly from 10 AM to 2 PM when the UV Index climbs to moderate levels of 5. Given Impendle's temperate climate, it's essential to stay informed about these UV risks, as even a few minutes of unprotected exposure can lead to long-term skin damage. Stay vigilant and arm yourself with the knowledge needed to enjoy the sun safely!
The UV Index throughout the day exhibits a dynamic pattern, peaking at 5 during the late morning to early afternoon hours. Starting off with a low rating of 1 at 07:00 AM and 08:00 AM, the index rises steadily to 2 by 09:00 AM. As the sun climbs higher, it escalates to 3 at 10:00 AM and reaches its maximum of 5 at 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, signaling the most intense UV exposure. By 01:00 PM, it begins to decline to 4, then 3 at 02:00 PM, and further decreases to 2 at 03:00 PM. As the day winds down, the UV Index drops back to 1 by 04:00 PM and stays there through the evening, finally slipping to 0 after 06:00 PM. Stay sun-smart and protect your skin during those 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 5 | 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 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variations, with extreme levels observed from January to March and again in September, October, and November. The highest UV Index recorded is 17 in December, emphasizing a persistent risk for sunburn with a burn time of just 10 minutes. The transition into April sees a decrease to a very high category (UV Index 10), allowing for slightly longer exposure of 15 minutes. As summer approaches, the UV Index decreases to moderate in June and July (UV Index 5), before rising again to very high in August (UV Index 8). Visitors and residents are advised to take necessary precautions, especially during high-risk months (January, February, March, September, October, November) when the risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure is at its peak. Always ensure to wear protective clothing, apply sunscreen, and seek shade during peak hours to mitigate these risks effectively.
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 |
| Impendle | 16 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 5 | 8 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 17 |
| 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 |