UV Index in Prieska, South Africa

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Being aware of the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors of Prieska, South Africa, where the sun's intensity can pose significant health risks. Understanding UV levels not only helps in preventing painful sunburns but also plays a crucial role in maintaining long-term skin health. With Prieska's BWh climate, characterized by dry and sunny conditions, the risk of high UV exposure increases, especially during midday hours when the index peaks at 7 between 12:00 and 13:00. Stay informed and take proactive measures to shield yourself from harmful UV rays while enjoying the beautiful South African sun!

Hourly UV Index in Prieska

The UV Index data reveals a significant fluctuation in solar intensity throughout the day. Starting at 07:00, the index registers a low 1, indicating minimal risk. As the sun climbs higher, it peaks dramatically at 12:00 with a 7, categorizing it as high. This midday zenith is crucial for outdoor activities; however, caution is advised. The afternoon sees a slight decline, dropping to 3 by 15:00, and eventually receding to 0 after 18:00. Thus, while the early hours offer safe sun exposure, midday warrants protective measures to shield against harmful UV rays.

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	1	low	45 min
08:00	1	low	45 min
09:00	2	low	45 min
10:00	4	moderate	30 min
11:00	6	high	25 min
12:00	7	high	25 min
13:00	6	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Prieska

During the year, UV levels fluctuate significantly, with high-risk months typically spanning from January through April, and again in October and November. In January and February, the UV Index peaks at a concerning 15, indicating an extreme exposure category and a very short burn time of only 10 minutes. By March and April, UV levels slightly decrease but remain in the extreme to very high categories, with burn times ranging from 10 to 15 minutes. The summer months of June and July experience a moderate UV Index of 5, allowing longer safe exposure of 30 minutes. However, as September approaches, the UV Index rises again to 10 in a very high category. To protect against harmful UV exposure, visitors and residents are advised to take precautions such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during the peak months.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Prieska, South Africa

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Prieska. 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 Prieska, 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 Prieska UV Index with Other South Africa Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Prieska 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.

Prieska'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
Prieska	15	15	12	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