Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Thulamahashi, South Africa, a region characterized by a BSh climate that exposes its inhabitants to varying levels of ultraviolet radiation throughout the day. Being aware of UV levels is essential not only for preventing sunburn but also for maintaining long-term skin health. With peak UV exposure reaching 6 between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, it’s vital to plan outdoor activities carefully and take protective measures when UV levels rise. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the sunny days of Thulamahashi while safeguarding your skin from harm.
The UV Index starts low in the early morning, with a maximum of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, making it a safe time for outdoor activities. As the day progresses, the intensity rises sharply, peaking at 6 between 11:00 and 12:00—the perfect time to take precautions if heading outside. By 13:00, it dips slightly to 5, and a more noticeable decline occurs in the afternoon, falling to 2 by 15:00. As the sun sets, the UV Index drops off sharply, reaching 1 by 16:00, and finally 0 past 18:00. It’s clear that midday sun calls for some sun safety measures, but the later hours provide a much more forgiving environment for enjoying the outdoors!
| 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 |
The UV Index reveals significant seasonal variations, with January through March presenting the highest risk, as all three months exhibit an extreme index of 15. This is followed closely by November and December, both at 14. During these critical months, the burn time is a mere 10 minutes, indicating an urgent need for protection. From April to September, the index fluctuates, with April and May still classified as very high at 10 and 8, respectively, while June and July drop to a high risk of 6. August and September again peak at very high levels, advocating for vigilant sun safety measures. By October, the index rises to 12 (extreme), heralding a return to heightened concern as the year closes. Visitors and residents are urged to prioritize sun protection strategies, especially during the high-risk months from January to March and again in November, to mitigate the dangers of excessive 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 |
| Thulamahashi | 15 | 15 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 6 | 8 | 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 |