Last updated: August 1, 2025
In Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn. Understanding UV levels helps residents and visitors alike take proactive measures to reduce exposure during peak sunlight hours, particularly from late morning until early afternoon, when the UV Index reaches a maximum of 5. With a Cfb climate, Pietermaritzburg offers a mild environment, but it also comes with its share of UV exposure risks, especially on sunny days. Stay informed and protect yourself to enjoy the beautiful outdoors safely!
The UV Index throughout the day exhibits a dynamic pattern, peaking at 5 during the late morning to early afternoon hours. Starting off with a low rating of 1 at 07:00 AM and 08:00 AM, the index rises steadily to 2 by 09:00 AM. As the sun climbs higher, it escalates to 3 at 10:00 AM and reaches its maximum of 5 at 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, signaling the most intense UV exposure. By 01:00 PM, it begins to decline to 4, then 3 at 02:00 PM, and further decreases to 2 at 03:00 PM. As the day winds down, the UV Index drops back to 1 by 04:00 PM and stays there through the evening, finally slipping to 0 after 06:00 PM. Stay sun-smart and protect your skin during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 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 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 |
| Pietermaritzburg | 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 |