Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Ulundi, South Africa, where the sun can be both a source of warmth and a potential risk to your skin health. With UV levels reaching up to 5 during peak hours, awareness of UV exposure is essential to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. Nestled in a Cfa climate zone, Ulundi experiences significant sunshine, making it imperative to stay informed about daily UV ratings. By tracking the UV Index, you can enjoy outdoor activities safely while protecting your skin from harmful rays.
The UV Index for today reveals a dynamic day filled with fluctuating sun exposure. Early morning hours start off mild, with levels at 1 from 07:00 to 08:00, ideal for gentle outdoor activities. As the sun climbs, the index rises to 2 by 09:00 and peaks at 5 between 11:00 and 13:00, signaling a strong need for sunscreen and protective gear during midday. Fortunately, the intensity begins to dip after 14:00, descending back to 3 and eventually settling at 1 by late afternoon. As twilight approaches, the UV Index falls to 0, providing a safe window for evening strolls. Remember to stay protected when the sun is at its strongest!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 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 |
The UV Index shows significant seasonal variation, with extreme levels persisting from January to March and then reappearing in October to December. During these months, the UV Index peaks at 15 in January and decreases to 14 in December, each associated with a burn time of just 10 minutes. April and September also present very high risk with indices of 9 and 10, respectively, allowing slightly longer burn times of 15 minutes. Conversely, May sees a reduction to a high risk of 6, permitting 25 minutes of safe exposure, while June and July feature moderate levels with indices of 5 and a burn time of 30 minutes. As summer transitions to fall, visitors and residents should take extra precautions between January and March and again from October to December when UV exposure is most extreme. It's essential to apply sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during peak hours to minimize the risk of 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 |
| Ulundi | 15 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 6 | 5 | 5 | 7 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 14 |
| 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 |