Last updated: June 2, 2025
Being aware of the UV Index is crucial in Burgersfort, South Africa, where the sun shines brightly in the Cwa climate zone. Understanding the levels of ultraviolet radiation helps residents protect themselves against sunburn and other skin health risks. With UV levels peaking at 6 around midday, it's essential to take preventive measures during those high-risk hours. Being informed about local UV exposure can empower you to enjoy the beautiful climate while safeguarding your skin.
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 | 1 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
11:00 | 6 | high | 25 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 |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variations, with extreme levels from January to March and again in September to November, indicating high risk for skin damage. April and May also show very high readings, particularly in May with a UV Index of 8. During these high-risk months, such as January (UV Index 16) and February (UV Index 15), residents and visitors should take precautions due to the minimal burn time of just 10 minutes. As summer approaches, the UV Index slightly decreases to a high level in June and July (UV Index 6), allowing for a 25-minute burn time. However, caution is still advised. Overall, it is essential for everyone to use adequate sun protection, particularly from October through March when UV levels spike again. Always wear sunscreen, protective clothing, and limit sun exposure during peak hours to ensure 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 |
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 |
Burgersfort | 16 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 6 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 |
Soweto UVI | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 7 | 6 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 13 | 15 | 16 |