UV Index in Pinetown, South Africa

Last updated: August 1, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Pinetown, South Africa, as it plays a vital role in protecting skin health and preventing sunburn. With a subtropical climate, Pinetown experiences varying levels of UV radiation throughout the day, peaking around midday when the index reaches a maximum of 5. By staying informed about the UV levels, you can take proactive measures to safeguard your skin and enjoy the sunny days without worry. Whether you're basking in the sun or engaging in outdoor activities, awareness of the UV Index can make all the difference in your sun safety routine.

Hourly UV Index in Pinetown

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.
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	6	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Pinetown

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 Pinetown, South Africa

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Pinetown 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.

Pinetown'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
Pinetown	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