UV Index in Richards Bay, South Africa

Last updated: August 1, 2025

In Richards Bay, South Africa, understanding the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin from harmful UV radiation. With the potential for sunburn and long-term skin damage, being aware of daily UV levels can help you take the necessary precautions. Typically experiencing a Cfa climate, Richards Bay faces unique UV exposure risks, especially during midday hours when the index peaks at 5 around noon. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the sun safely while prioritizing your skin health.

Hourly UV Index in Richards Bay

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!

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 Richards Bay

Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, with January, February, March, October, November, and December marking the high-risk months for UV exposure, all registering an extreme level with a UV Index of 14 or 13 and a burn time of only 10 minutes. The spring sees a gradual decrease in UV levels, with April and May showing very high (8) and high (6) risk, respectively, while the summer months of June and July experience a moderate UV Index of 4 and 5, allowing for longer burn times of 30 minutes. As fall approaches, UV levels rise again, peaking at 9 in September, then dropping back to extreme levels in October and November. Visitors and residents are advised to remain vigilant in protecting themselves from UV radiation, especially during the high-risk months, by seeking shade, wearing appropriate clothing, and using sunscreen to minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Richards Bay, South Africa

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Richards Bay. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec141412864579111314
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Richards Bay, 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 Richards Bay UV Index with Other South Africa Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Richards Bay 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.
Richards Bay's solar exposure compared to other cities in South Africa. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Cape Town UVI141311853469111214
Richards Bay141412864579111314
Durban UVI141312964579111315
Johannesburg UVI15151310766811121416
Pretoria UVI16151310766911131416
Soweto UVI16151311766811131516