Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Lichtenburg, South Africa, is crucial for maintaining your skin health and preventing sunburn. With its semi-arid BSk climate and high sun exposure, Lichtenburg presents unique UV risks, particularly during peak hours when the index reaches levels 5 and 6 around midday. Staying informed about UV levels empowers residents and visitors alike to take proactive measures against harmful effects of UV radiation, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable outdoor experience. Whether you're soaking up the sun or engaging in sports, awareness of the UV Index is your first line of defense against skin damage.
Throughout the day, the UV Index escalates to its peak between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, reaching a high of 6—a clear indicator to stay protected from the sun's rays. Early morning hours see a gentle start, with a maximum 1 at 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM, gradually rising to 2 by 9:00 AM. As the sun climbs, so does the intensity, spiking to 5 at 11:00 AM and maintaining a steady 6 for the peak hours. Following this brief burst of intensity, the UV Index dwindles swiftly, dropping to 4 by 2:00 PM, then further decreasing to 3 at 3:00 PM, and tapering off to 1 by 4:00 PM. Finally, as daylight fades, the index plummets to 0 by 6:00 PM, marking the end of a vibrant, sunlit day. Remember to stay safe and protect your skin, especially during midday hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 4 | 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 fluctuations throughout the year, with extreme levels reported from January to April, and then again in September, October, and November. Notably, the high-risk months for sun exposure, characterized by an UV Index of 16 in January, February, December, and 15 in November, indicate an urgent need for protection, with a burn time as short as 10 minutes. As the season progresses into May to July, the index drops to high, still posing a considerable risk with burn times increasing to 25 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during these months by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize the risk of UV exposure. Remaining vigilant, especially during the identified high-risk months, is crucial for maintaining skin health while enjoying outdoor activities.
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 |
| Lichtenburg | 16 | 16 | 13 | 11 | 7 | 6 | 6 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 15 | 16 |