UV Index in Mpumalanga, South Africa

Last updated: August 1, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Mpumalanga, South Africa is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. With a climate characterized by warm and sunny days, the region often experiences elevated UV levels, particularly between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM. By staying informed about the UV index, residents and visitors can take proactive steps to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. As the UV Index peaks at 5 around noon, awareness becomes essential to enjoying Mpumalanga’s beautiful landscapes while safeguarding your skin health.

Hourly UV Index in Mpumalanga

The UV Index throughout the day follows a distinct pattern, with the intensity peaking at 12:00 PM when it reaches a noteworthy level of 5. Morning hours start off mild, with values of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, gradually escalating to 2 by 09:00, then climbing to 4 at 11:00. Post-noon, the index slightly decreases, falling to 4 again at 13:00, before tapering off to 2 by 15:00. As the day winds down, the levels drop significantly, plunging to 0 by 19:00. This highlights the importance of sun protection during the midday hours when UV radiation is at its strongest.

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
12:007high25 min
13:006high25 min
14:005moderate30 min
15:003moderate30 min
16:001low45 min
17:001low45 min
18:000low45 min
19:000low45 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec141312964579111315
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.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Cape Town UVI141311853469111214
Mpumalanga141312964579111315
Durban UVI141312964579111315
Johannesburg UVI15151310766811121416
Pretoria UVI16151310766911131416
Soweto UVI16151311766811131516