Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Giyani, South Africa, is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. High UV levels can lead to sunburn and increase the risk of skin cancer, making it essential for residents and visitors alike to stay informed. With Giyani's sunny BSh climate, exposure to harmful rays peaks around midday, particularly during the summer months, when the UV Index can reach as high as 7. By being aware of the daily UV levels, you can take proactive steps to ensure your skin stays healthy, such as seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen during those peak hours. Stay safe under the sun!
The UV Index reveals a dynamic day of sun exposure. Beginning at a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM, the index gradually rises, hitting 3 by 9:00 AM. A significant surge occurs at 10:00 AM, with the UV Index climbing to 5, peaking at an intense 7 at 12:00 PM. The intensity then begins to decline, with values of 6 at 1:00 PM, dropping to 4 by 2:00 PM, and further decreasing to 3 at 3:00 PM. As the afternoon wanes, the index returns to 1 by 4:00 PM and finally falls to 0 after 6:00 PM, marking a gentler evening. It's a reminder to stay sun-smart during those midday hours when UV exposure is at its highest!
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 6 | high | 25 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, UV Index levels display significant seasonal variations, with the highest risk occurring in the early months and late fall. From January to April, the UV Index remains in the extreme category, peaking at 15 in January and February, with a dangerously short burn time of just 10 minutes. As spring transitions to summer, risks decline slightly in May to July, with the index dropping to very high (8-9) and high levels (6-7), allowing for longer safe exposure of 15 to 25 minutes. However, August and September see an increase again, with very high levels returning. The cycle continues with extreme levels resuming in October through December, maintaining a burn time back down to 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should remain vigilant during these high-risk months, particularly from January to April and October to November, ensuring to seek shade, wear protective clothing, and apply sunscreen regularly to prevent harmful UV exposure.
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 |
| Giyani | 15 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 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 |