Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Kuruman, South Africa, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. Understanding the daily UV levels can significantly aid in sunburn prevention and promote overall skin health. With Kuruman's characteristic arid climate, high UV exposure is common, particularly during midday hours when the index can reach a peak of 6. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the sun safely while minimizing the risks associated with prolonged sun exposure.
As the sun rises, the UV Index remains low at 0 by 07:00, perfect for early risers. However, a gentle increase begins at 08:00, reaching 1 by the late morning. The real action starts at 10:00, when the index climbs to 3, peaking at 6 from 12:00 to 13:00. This midday high signals the time to take precautions, as the sun's rays are strongest. Despite a gradual decrease to 4 by 14:00, the UV intensity remains noticeable, dropping further to 3 at 15:00. By 16:00, it retreats to 2, then diminishes swiftly to 1 at 17:00 and back to 0 by 18:00. As night falls, the UV threat dissipates, marking a safe end to a day under the sun.
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 | 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 | 2 | 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 fluctuate significantly, with the highest exposure occurring from January to March and again in September to November, making these the high-risk months for sunburn and UV-related health issues. During this period, the UV Index reaches a peak of 16 in January and February, categorized as extreme, where skin can burn in just 10 minutes. April sees a drop to an index of 10, indicating very high exposure, while May transitions to high with an index of 7 and a longer burn time of 25 minutes. For those visiting or residing in the area, it is essential to take precautions during these months, such as wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours. Be particularly vigilant in September, October, and November as the index spikes again, returning to extreme levels, reminding everyone to prioritize their skin safety year-round.
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 |
Kuruman | 15 | 16 | 13 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 13 | 15 | 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 |