Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Pampierstad, South Africa, as it plays a significant role in protecting your skin health. With the region's BSh climate, characterized by hot summers and moderate rainfall, UV levels can soar, especially during midday. Knowing the UV Index allows you to anticipate sunburn risks—from a manageable level of 1 in the early morning, to a dangerous peak of 7 around noon. By staying informed, you can take proactive steps to minimize harmful exposure and enjoy the beautiful sunny days in Pampierstad safely.
Today's UV Index shows a dynamic rise and fall in intensity throughout the day. Starting with a gentle 1 at 07:00, it gradually increases to a moderate 3 by 09:00. The sun reaches its zenith at 12:00, where the UV Index peaks at a striking 7, recommending caution for those outdoors. The intensity remains high at 7 till 13:00 before gracefully tapering off to 5 by 14:00. As the afternoon wanes, the UV Index declines to 3 at 15:00 and further drops to 1 by 17:00, finally settling at 0 after 18:00. Enjoy the sun, but remember to stay protected during the peak hours! ☀️
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 5 | 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, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, peaking during the winter and early spring months. January and February each maintain an extreme UV Index of 15, resulting in a burn time of just 10 minutes. This trend continues into March, with a UV Index of 13, still categorized as extreme. The highest risk months for UV exposure are from September to December, where values hover between 14 and 16—all classified as extreme. Caution is advised for residents and visitors during these months: limit sun exposure, wear protective clothing, and use broad-spectrum sunscreen to minimize the risk of skin damage. As spring approaches in April, UV levels drop slightly to 10, indicating a very high risk, while May sees a decrease to a high level of 7. By June, the UV Index lowers to 5 (moderate), before rising again in July with 6 (high) and August at 8 (very high). It remains crucial to stay vigilant about UV exposure year-round, particularly during these high-risk months.
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 |
| Pampierstad | 15 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 6 | 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 |