UV Index in Hopetown, South Africa

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Hopetown, South Africa, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from the sun's harmful rays. Understanding UV levels not only helps in preventing painful sunburns but also plays a vital role in maintaining long-term skin health. With Hopetown's semi-arid climate (BSh), residents and visitors face unique challenges during sunny days when ultraviolet exposure can peak, particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can take the necessary precautions to enjoy outdoor activities safely while minimizing the risk of skin damage.

Hourly UV Index in Hopetown

At dawn, the UV Index begins at a gentle 0 by 07:00, indicating minimal exposure risk. As the sun rises higher, the index steadily climbs, reaching 1 at 08:00 and peaking at 5 between 12:00 and 13:00, when the sun’s rays are at their most intense. During these peak hours, it’s wise to don your sunscreen and protective gear. Following this zenith, the index gracefully descends, dropping to 4 at 14:00 and tapering off to 2 by 15:00. As the afternoon fades to evening, the UV levels reduce significantly, returning to a safe 0 by 18:00. This hourly UV pattern underscores the importance of sun safety during peak daylight hours!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	0	low	45 min
08:00	1	low	45 min
09:00	2	low	45 min
10:00	3	moderate	30 min
11:00	4	moderate	30 min
12:00	5	moderate	30 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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Hopetown

Throughout the year, seasonal UV changes reveal distinct patterns, with January to April showing extreme and very high UV Index levels. High-risk months are evident from January to November, where the UV Index remains notably elevated. Particularly concerning are February and November, with UV Index readings of 16, and March and October, at 13. Visitors and residents should take precautions, especially from January through April and again during September through November when burn times can drop to as low as 10 minutes. It's essential to wear protective clothing, seek shade, and apply broad-spectrum sunscreen diligently when exposure to sunlight is unavoidable. During the summer months of June and July, while the UV Index decreases to moderate levels, caution is still advised as safe sun practices should remain a priority.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Hopetown, South Africa

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Hopetown. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Hopetown, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Hopetown UV Index with Other South Africa Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Hopetown compares to other major locations across South Africa. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Hopetown's solar exposure compared to other cities in South Africa. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
Hopetown	15	16	13	10	7	5	5	8	11	13	14	16
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