Last updated: August 1, 2025
In Tzaneen, South Africa, awareness of the UV Index is essential for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With a tropical climate classified as Cwa, residents and visitors alike experience varying UV levels throughout the day, peaking at a significant 6 between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM. Understanding these UV levels is crucial not just for enjoying the beautiful sun-drenched days but also for protecting your skin from harmful radiation. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can take proactive measures to safeguard your skin, ensuring that your outdoor experiences in Tzaneen remain both enjoyable and safe.
The UV Index demonstrates its daily rhythm, starting off softly with a maximum of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00. As the sun climbs, the intensity increases, peaking at a robust 6 from 11:00 to 13:00, encouraging sun safety awareness during these hours. Following the midday high, the index gently declines, dropping to 4 at 14:00, and tapering off to 1 by 16:00. As the sun sets, it graciously recedes into 0 by 18:00, ensuring that the evening hours bring a respite from UV exposure. Remember to protect your skin when the index is high, especially during the bustling hours of noon!
| 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 |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels exhibit significant seasonal variation, with extreme exposure categories occurring primarily in the winter months. From January to April, the UV Index remains high (between 11 and 15), indicating extreme risk with a dangerously short burn time of 10 minutes—making these high-risk months for sun exposure. In May and August, the UV Index drops slightly to 8 and 9, categorized as very high, allowing for a bit more time (15 minutes) before burning occurs. June and July present a moderate relief, with a high UV Index of 6, where burn time extends to 25 minutes. As summer wanes into September and October, the UV Index rises again to 10 and 12, returning to very high and extreme categories, respectively, with short burn times of 15 and 10 minutes. November maintains an extreme level at 14, again emphasizing the need for caution. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to take protective measures against UV exposure year-round, especially during the extreme months, by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and limiting outdoor activities during peak sun hours.
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 |
| Tzaneen | 15 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 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 |