UV Index in Mpumalanga, South Africa

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Mpumalanga, South Africa, where sunny days are the norm. With the region's Cfa climate, characterized by warm summers and mild winters, it's important to be aware of varying UV levels throughout the day. Knowing the UV index helps prevent sunburns and protects long-term skin health, making it essential to keep an eye on daily fluctuations. As the UV index peaks at 6 around midday, caution is advised to minimize exposure during these hours, ensuring your time in Mpumalanga is both enjoyable and safe under the sun.

Hourly UV Index in Mpumalanga

The UV Index throughout the day presents a dynamic picture of sun exposure. Early hours from 07:00 to 08:00 are marked by a low index of 1, making sun protection minimal. However, as the day unfolds, the intensity rises sharply; by 09:00, it reaches 3, climbing to a peak of 6 at both 11:00 and 12:00. During this time, it's crucial to take precautions against harmful rays. As the afternoon progresses, the UV Index gradually declines, dropping to 5 at 13:00 and further to 4 by 14:00. By late afternoon, the levels fall to 2 at 15:00 and drop to 1 by 16:00, and the sun's strength wanes completely after 18:00, where it dips to 0. Plan your outdoor activities wisely!

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	1	low	45 min
09:00	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	5	moderate	30 min
11:00	6	high	25 min
12:00	6	high	25 min
13:00	5	moderate	30 min
14:00	4	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Mpumalanga

Throughout the year, the UV Index shows significant fluctuations, with the highest risk months being January, February, March, October, November, and December, all categorized as having an extreme exposure level and a burn time of just 10 minutes. April and September also exhibit very high levels of UV exposure with a burn time of 15 minutes. In contrast, June and July present a moderate risk, while May and August fall into the high category. Visitors and residents should take extra precautions during high-risk months by using broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours to minimize UV exposure and ensure skin safety.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Mpumalanga, South Africa

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Mpumalanga 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.

Mpumalanga'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
Mpumalanga	14	13	12	9	6	4	5	7	9	11	13	15
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
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