Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Maile, South Africa, as it directly impacts sun safety and skin health. With the region's BSh climate, characterized by hot and dry conditions, awareness of UV levels can prevent issues like sunburn and long-term skin damage. During peak hours, particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM, the UV Index can reach levels as high as 6, posing significant risks even on seemingly mild days. By staying informed about UV exposure, you can better protect yourself and your loved ones from harmful effects, ensuring enjoyable and safe time outdoors in our sun-kissed environment.
The UV Index today showcased a notable increase from the early morning hours, starting at a gentle 1 at 07:00 and 08:00. As the sun rose higher in the sky, the index climbed steadily, reaching a significant 6 by 12:00, indicating a peak in UV radiation and the need for sun protection. The afternoon saw a slight decline, with values dropping to 4 at 14:00 and falling further to 2 by 15:00. As the day wound down, the UV index returned to a safer range, ending the day at 0 by 19:00. It’s crucial to stay informed and safeguard your skin during those high UV 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 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV exposure varies significantly, with extreme UV Index levels observed from January to March and again in September to November. Notably, January and December each reach a peak UV Index of 16, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. The transition months of April and August present very high exposure conditions, while May to July see a shift to high categories, allowing slightly longer burn times of 25 minutes. As the sun’s intensity increases, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to take protective measures, especially during the high-risk months of January, February, March, September, October, and November. Umbrellas, sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours are highly recommended to ensure safety against the harmful effects of UV radiation.
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 |
Maile | 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 |