UV Index in Matatiele, South Africa

Last updated: August 1, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Matatiele, South Africa is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful ultraviolet rays. With the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage ever-present, being aware of the daily UV levels can make a significant difference in maintaining your skin health. Matatiele's Cwb climate features varied altitudes and seasonal changes, which contribute to fluctuating UV exposure risks, especially during midday hours when the index peaks at 5. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors while taking necessary precautions to protect yourself and your loved ones from excessive sun exposure.

Hourly UV Index in Matatiele

The UV Index throughout the day reveals a notable oscillation in sun exposure. Early morning hours from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM see a mild UV Index of 1, indicating minimal risk. As the sun ascends, the intensity rises sharply, peaking at 5 between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, marking the day’s highest risk for skin damage. Following this peak, the index tapers off in the afternoon, returning to a manageable 2 by 3:00 PM, before descending to a safe 0 by 6:00 PM. It’s clear that the primary concern for sun safety lies during mid-day; ensure to protect your skin when the UV Index hits its zenith!

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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:002low45 min
09:003moderate30 min
10:005moderate30 min
11:007high25 min
12:008very high15 min
13:007high25 min
14:005moderate30 min
15:003moderate30 min
16:002low45 min
17:001low45 min
18:000low45 min
19:000low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Matatiele

Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, with January and December reaching the highest levels at 16, categorizing exposure as extreme and resulting in a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. The high-risk months for UV exposure are notably February, March, September, October, and November, all with extreme categories and a quick burn time of 10 minutes. In contrast, April sees a drop to an index of 10 (very high) with a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. As spring progresses into summer, the risks decrease with June and July maintaining a moderate index of 5, allowing a more tolerable burn time of 30 minutes. However, residents and visitors should remain vigilant, especially during high-risk months, by seeking shade, applying sunscreen, and wearing protective clothing to mitigate the risks of UV exposure.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Matatiele, South Africa

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Matatiele. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec16151310655811121416
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Matatiele, 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 Matatiele UV Index with Other South Africa Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Matatiele 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.
Matatiele's solar exposure compared to other cities in South Africa. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Cape Town UVI141311853469111214
Durban UVI141312964579111315
Matatiele16151310655811121416
Johannesburg UVI15151310766811121416
Pretoria UVI16151310766911131416
Soweto UVI16151311766811131516