Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Burgersfort, South Africa, where the sun can pose significant risks, especially during the peak hours of 10 AM to 2 PM. With a typical climate characterized by warm temperatures and high solar exposure, it’s essential to be aware of the UV levels to effectively prevent sunburn and protect skin health. On sunny days, like those seen often in Burgersfort, the UV Index can reach a maximum of 8 around noon, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By familiarizing yourself with the UV Index, you can take proactive steps to enjoy the outdoors safely while safeguarding your skin.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a sharp increase in intensity, peaking around 12:00 PM, where it reaches an impressive 8. Early morning hours start softly with a maximum of 1 at 07:00, gradually climbing to 3 by 09:00 and hitting 6 at 10:00. 11:00 marks a significant rise to 7, before hitting the day’s zenith at 12:00. As the afternoon progresses, we see a decline, dropping to 5 by 14:00 and diminishing further to 3 by 15:00. The UV Index then falls sharply in the late afternoon and evening, settling back down to 1 by 17:00 and ultimately reaching 0 as night takes over. It’s crucial to stay safe under the sun during those peak hours, particularly between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM!
| 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 7 | 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 |
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 |