Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Makapanstad, South Africa, is crucial for safeguarding your skin from harmful ultraviolet radiation. By being aware of UV levels, you can effectively prevent sunburn and promote long-term skin health. With Makapanstad's BSh climate, characterized by hot summers and varying sun exposure, knowing when UV levels peak can help you take essential precautions. Typically, UV levels rise significantly during midday, reaching a maximum of 6 at noon, indicating a higher risk for sun-related skin damage. Stay informed and protect yourself!
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 Index levels show significant seasonal changes, with the highest values in winter and late fall months. January, February, and March are particularly high-risk months, each with an extreme UV Index of 16, 15, and 13 respectively, resulting in a quick 10-minute burn time. As spring approaches, April and May experience a decline to 10 and 8, but remain in the very high exposure category, with a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. The summer months of June and July offer a slight reprieve with a UV Index of 6, classified as high exposure, allowing for a burn time of 25 minutes. However, as August rolls in, the UV Index increases again to 8. Fall brings the UV levels back into the extreme category in September and October, reaching 11 and 13, with 10-minute burn times, followed by November's 14. December ends the year on a high note with a return to an extreme level of 16. Residents and visitors should take precautions during these high-risk months by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen generously, and limiting sun exposure, especially during peak UV times.
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 |
| Makapanstad | 16 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 13 | 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 |