UV Index in Phalaborwa, South Africa

Last updated: August 1, 2025

In Phalaborwa, South Africa, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. Understanding UV levels helps residents and visitors alike prepare for the potential risks associated with sun exposure, particularly during the sunniest hours of the day. With a BSh climate characterized by warm temperatures and pronounced sunlight, UV exposure can escalate quickly—peaking at a UV Index of 6 around midday. Staying informed about the UV Index equips you with the knowledge to protect your skin, ensuring you enjoy the beautiful outdoor experiences that Phalaborwa has to offer while minimizing the risk of harmful UV damage.

Hourly UV Index in Phalaborwa

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, peaking between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM at a robust 6. Early hours, without much intensity, see UV levels of 1 at 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, activity picks up, reaching 3, and continues to climb until it hits 4 by 10:00 AM. The midday sun really asserts its presence, maintaining a strong 6 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, which is a critical time for sun safety awareness. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually declines, falling to 2 by 3:00 PM, and later diminishing to a mere 0 by 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM. It's a day of notable UV fluctuation, highlighting the importance of protection during the 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.
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	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Phalaborwa

The UV Index experiences significant seasonal variations, with extreme levels occurring from January to March and again in October to December, where the burn time can be as short as 10 minutes. April through August displays very high to high levels, with burn times extending to 25 minutes in June and July. The high-risk months for UV exposure are January, February, March, and November, requiring extra precautions. Visitors and residents should protect their skin by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours, especially when the UV index is 10 or higher. This proactive approach will help minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Phalaborwa, South Africa

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Phalaborwa 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.

Phalaborwa'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
Phalaborwa	15	15	12	10	8	6	6	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