Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Siyabuswa, South Africa, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful sun exposure. Understanding UV levels is not just about avoiding sunburn; it plays a vital role in maintaining long-term skin health and preventing more serious conditions such as skin cancer. The climate in Siyabuswa, characterized by a BSh (steppe) climate, can present specific UV exposure risks, particularly during peak sunlight hours when the index can soar to 7 between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM. Stay informed and take necessary precautions to enjoy the sun safely!
The UV Index throughout the day paints a vivid picture of sun intensity, starting at a modest 1 at 07:00 and gradually climbing to its peak of 7 from 11:00 to 13:00. This high level signifies a heightened risk for prolonged sun exposure, perfect for sun lovers but cautionary for the rest. From the peak, the index starts to dip, dropping to 5 at 14:00 and dwindling to 1 by 16:00. As the sun begins to set, the UV Index plummets to 0 by 18:00 and remains in the safe zone through the evening. Plan your outdoor activities wisely, ensuring midday sun protection while enjoying the earlier and later hours!
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 | 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 experiences significant seasonal fluctuations, with the highest levels recorded in the winter and early spring months. From January to April, the UV Index peaks at an extreme level of 16 to 11, necessitating only 10 minutes of exposure before burning occurs. Following this, the index decreases to 8 in May and 6 in June and July, indicating a shift to a very high and high risk. August sees a rise again to 9, before returning to extreme levels of 11 to 16 in the fall and winter months from September to December. Visitors and residents should exercise caution, particularly from January to April and again in September to November, where the UV risk is at its highest. It’s crucial to apply sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and limit sun exposure during these months to prevent 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 |
Siyabuswa | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 6 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 16 |