Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Kenhardt, South Africa, is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With a typical BWh climate that boasts abundant sunshine, residents must be aware of the daily UV levels to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. The UV Index peaks around midday, reaching levels of 5—indicating a moderate risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By familiarizing yourself with this essential information, you can take proactive measures to enjoy the sun safely while protecting your skin throughout the year.
The UV Index data reveals a dynamic progression throughout the day. Starting at 0 at 7:00 AM, the intensity begins to rise slowly, reaching 1 by 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM. By 10:00 AM, it escalates to 3, indicating a moderate level of UV exposure. 11:00 AM sees the index peak at 4, and the sun reaches its zenith by noon with a UV Index of 5, marking a high risk level. The afternoon maintains this peak at 5 until 1:00 PM, before gradually declining to 4 at 2:00 PM and further down to 3 by 3:00 PM. As the sun sets, the UV radiation drops sharply, returning to 1 at 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM, and finally back to 0 from 6:00 PM onward. Awareness of these fluctuations can guide outdoor plans, ensuring protection during the peak UV hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 1 | 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 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV Index values exhibit significant variability, with the highest levels occurring between January and April, where the index reaches extremes of 15. February and March maintain this peak, while April sees a slight decrease to 10, still categorized as very high. October and November also present high-risk periods with indices of 13 and 14 respectively, and a particularly alarming 16 in December. The best months for reduced UV exposure are June and July, with a moderate index of 5. Visitors and residents should take precautions, especially from January through April and October through November, to minimize sun exposure. During extreme categories, limit sun exposure to 10 minutes while wearing protective clothing, sunscreen, and sunglasses to safeguard skin health. Stay vigilant and plan outdoor activities during safer 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 |
| Kenhardt | 15 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 5 | 8 | 10 | 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 |