UV Index in Lephalale, South Africa

Last updated: August 1, 2025

In Lephalale, South Africa, being aware of the UV Index is essential for maintaining healthy skin and preventing sunburn. Understanding the levels of UV radiation can help residents and visitors protect themselves from harmful effects associated with excessive sun exposure, especially during peak hours when the index reaches a high of 7 around noon. With Lephalale’s semi-arid climate, characterized by plenty of sunshine, it's crucial to stay informed about the daily UV forecasts to enjoy the outdoors safely while safeguarding your skin's health.

Hourly UV Index in Lephalale

The UV Index data for the day reveals a dynamic pattern of sun exposure. Starting off at a low level, both 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM maintain a mere index of 1, indicating minimal UV radiation. As the sun climbs higher, 9:00 AM sees the index rise to 3, gradually peaking at 12:00 PM with an intense 7, suggesting it's time for sun protection. The afternoon hours show a slight decline, with 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM still holding strong at 6 and 5 respectively. As the day winds down, the index drops sharply after 3:00 PM, falling back to a 1 by 4:00 PM and eventually reaching 0 by 6:00 PM, marking a safe return from the sun's harsh rays. It's a reminder of the importance of sun safety during those midday 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.
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	4	moderate	30 min
16:00	2	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 Lephalale

The UV Index fluctuates significantly throughout the year, peaking during the winter months with an extreme exposure category from January to April, when the burn time is as low as 10 minutes. The high-risk months for UV exposure are January, February, March, April, September, October, November, and December, where the UV Index consistently exceeds 11. As the seasons change, UV levels drop in the summer months of June and July, reaching a high exposure category with burn times extending to 25 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautionary measures, especially in the high and extreme months, by wearing adequate sun protection, seeking shade, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours to reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Lephalale, South Africa

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Lephalale 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.

Lephalale'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
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
Lephalale	16	15	13	11	8	6	7	9	11	13	14	15