Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Ndwedwe, South Africa is crucial for protecting your skin and maintaining overall health, especially given the area's Cfa climate, characterized by warm temperatures and rich sunlight year-round. As UV levels fluctuate throughout the day, becoming aware of these changes is vital for sunburn prevention and long-term skin health. With peak UV Index readings reaching 6 around midday, residents and visitors alike should take proactive measures against potential skin damage, ensuring safe outdoor enjoyment in this vibrant locale.
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!
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 |
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.
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 |
Ndwedwe | 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 |