Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Louis Trichardt, South Africa, is essential for protecting your skin health and preventing sunburn. With its BSh climate, residents and visitors alike should be aware of the fluctuating UV levels that peak during midday. For instance, UV Index readings soar to a critical 7 around noon, emphasizing the need for sun protection. By being informed about UV exposure risks and taking necessary precautions, you can enjoy the sunshine while safeguarding your skin against harmful effects. Stay safe and make UV awareness a part of your daily routine!
At dawn, the UV Index starts off low, with a maximum of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00. As the sun rises higher, it reaches 3 by 09:00, before climbing to a peak of 7 at 12:00. This midday intensity signifies a need for sun protection, especially during the height of the day when UV exposure is most potent. The index begins to decline in the afternoon, dropping to 5 at 14:00 and settling back to 1 by 17:00. By 18:00 and into the evening, the UV Index sharply drops to 0, marking a safe time to enjoy outdoor activities without the risk of sunburn. Stay sun-safe!
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 | 2 | low | 45 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index varies significantly throughout the year, with the highest levels occurring from January to April and again in November and December, all categorized as extreme with a burn time of just 10 minutes. March and October also reflect high values of 13 and 15, making them months of concern for skin safety. The burn time increases to 15 minutes in May and August, where the UV Index remains very high. June and July offer slightly lower risks at 6 and 7 (high), allowing for a 25-minute burn time. However, risk intensifies again in September, returning to an extreme level of 11. Visitors and residents should practice sun safety diligently, especially during high-risk months (January through April and November), by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize 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 |
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 |
Louis Trichardt | 15 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 15 | 15 |