Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Barberton, South Africa, as it serves as a vital indicator of sun exposure risk throughout the day. With peak UV levels reaching 7 around midday, being aware of these measurements can help prevent painful sunburns and long-term skin damage. Barberton’s Cwa climate—characterized by warm, temperate conditions—exposes residents to significant UV radiation, especially during the summer months. By tracking and understanding the UV Index, you can take proactive steps to protect your skin, maintain your health, and enjoy the sunny outdoors safely.
The UV Index today began its ascent at 7:00 AM with a modest 1, slowly climbing to 2 by 8:00 AM. As the sun rose higher, the index reached 3 at 9:00 AM, then jumped to 5 by 10:00 AM. The peak was recorded at 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, both hitting a notable 7. By 1:00 PM, the UV Index slightly dipped to 6, followed by a gradual decline to 5 by 2:00 PM. This downward trend continued as it fell to 3 at 3:00 PM and further decreased to 1 by 4:00 PM. The day wrapped up with very low readings of 1 at 5:00 PM, and dropping to 0 by 6:00 PM, indicating a safe evening with minimal UV exposure. Make the most of the sun wisely! ☀️
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 6 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV levels exhibit significant seasonal variations, with extreme UV indices recorded from January to March and again in September to November, necessitating heightened caution during these high-risk months. Specifically, January and February see a peak UV Index of 16, with a burn time of just 10 minutes, indicating an urgent need for protective measures. As spring approaches, the UV Index drops slightly but remains at very high levels in April and May, with burn times extending to 15 minutes. In the summer months of June and July, the UV Index stabilizes at 6, classified as high, allowing for slightly longer outdoor exposure time of 25 minutes. Visitors and residents should take extra precautions during the extreme UV periods—such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade—particularly from September to November and during mid-winter months to ensure skin safety.
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 |
| Barberton | 16 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 13 | 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 |