Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents of Ixopo, South Africa, where the climate provides a unique blend of warm summers and mild winters. By staying informed about UV levels, you can effectively prevent sunburn and protect your skin health. With the UV Index peaking at 4 between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, it’s crucial to take precautions during these hours. Ixopo’s climate, classified as Cfb (temperate oceanic), means that even moderate UV exposure can pose risks, so being aware of the UV Index is a proactive step towards safeguarding your well-being under the sun.
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, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, with high-risk months typically occurring from January to March and then again in October and November. These months showcase extreme UV levels, reaching a peak of 15 in January and December, with a minimal burn time of just 10 minutes. The spring and fall months show a shift to very high categories in April, September, and significant rising levels in February and March. By May to August, while still requiring precautions, the UV Index drops to moderate and high levels, with burn times increasing to 25-30 minutes. It is crucial for both residents and visitors to take protective measures during the highest UV periods by wearing appropriate sunblock, protective clothing, and seeking shade to mitigate the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
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 |
Ixopo | 15 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 10 | 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 |