Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Carolina, South Africa, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With a varied climate characterized by cool temperatures and sunny days, residents and visitors alike face unique challenges related to UV exposure, particularly during the peak hours of sunshine from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM when the index can reach a high of 6. Being aware of the UV levels not only aids in preventing painful sunburn but also plays a significant role in reducing long-term skin damage. As you explore the beautiful outdoors, stay informed and enjoy the sun safely by keeping an eye on the UV Index!
Experience the sun's intensity as the day unfolds with the UV Index revealing a dynamic range of exposure. Beginning at dawn, the index starts at a modest 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, making it a safe time for morning strolls. As the sun climbs higher, the UV Index rises sharply, peaking at 6 between 12:00 and 13:00, signaling high risk for skin damage at midday. Afterward, it gradually tapers off, dipping to 2 by 15:00, and further falling back to 1 by the late afternoon. As evening approaches, the UV levels finally drop to 0 after 18:00, providing a safe end to the day. Remember, protection is key during those peak hours!
| 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 | 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 |
The UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal changes, with the highest levels occurring in the winter months of January and December, where the UV Index reaches 16 and is classified as extreme, resulting in a burn time of only 10 minutes. The spring months of March and April also see high UV levels, transitioning from extreme (UV Index of 13) to very high (UV Index of 10). As summer approaches, the UV Index drops slightly to 6 in June and July, categorized as high, allowing for longer burn times of 25 minutes. However, in August, the level rises again to 9 and shifts back to very high, and September returns to an extreme level at 11. The trend continues into October and November, both marked by an extreme UV Index of 13 and 14, respectively. Residents and visitors should take precautions during the high-risk months, especially from January to April and later in September to November, by wearing appropriate sun protection, seeking shade, and limiting sun exposure to reduce the risk of skin damage.
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 |
| Soweto UVI | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 7 | 6 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 13 | 15 | 16 |
| Carolina | 16 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 6 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 16 |