UV Index in Balfour, South Africa

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Balfour, South Africa, where the sun’s rays can pose a significant risk to skin health. With a climate characterized as Cwb, this region experiences varied UV exposure levels throughout the day, peaking at noon with an index of 6, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By staying informed about UV levels, locals can effectively protect themselves from sunburns and long-term skin damage, ensuring that outdoor activities are safe and enjoyable. Remember, even on seemingly mild days, it's important to be vigilant about sun safety!

Hourly UV Index in Balfour

The UV Index today showcased a notable increase from the early morning hours, starting at a gentle 1 at 07:00 and 08:00. As the sun rose higher in the sky, the index climbed steadily, reaching a significant 6 by 12:00, indicating a peak in UV radiation and the need for sun protection. The afternoon saw a slight decline, with values dropping to 4 at 14:00 and falling further to 2 by 15:00. As the day wound down, the UV index returned to a safer range, ending the day at 0 by 19:00. It’s crucial to stay informed and safeguard your skin during those high UV 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	1	low	45 min
09:00	2	low	45 min
10:00	4	moderate	30 min
11:00	5	moderate	30 min
12:00	6	high	25 min
13:00	5	moderate	30 min
14:00	4	moderate	30 min
15:00	2	low	45 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 Balfour

The UV Index experiences dramatic seasonal changes, with the highest levels occurring from January to April where it consistently reaches an extreme level of 15 to 13, equating to a burn time of just 10 minutes. September to November shows a resurgence of these extreme conditions, particularly in November with a UV Index of 14. The months of May to July see a slight dip into the high category (UV Index of 6 to 7), allowing for longer exposure times of 25 minutes, before escalating to very high levels in August with a burn time of only 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should be particularly vigilant during the high-risk months of January to April and September to November, ensuring to take precautions such as using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Balfour, South Africa

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Balfour 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.

Balfour'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
Balfour	15	15	13	11	7	6	6	8	11	12	14	15
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