Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the residents of Van Wyksvlei, South Africa, a region characterized by its arid BWh climate. With UV levels peaking during midday, awareness of these levels can play a significant role in preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. Throughout the day, especially from 10 AM to 2 PM, the UV Index can rise to levels that pose serious risks. By staying informed about UV exposure, locals can take the necessary precautions to enjoy the sun safely while safeguarding their skin against harmful effects.
The UV Index throughout the day tells a compelling story of sun exposure. Starting at a cool 0 at 07:00, the intensity slowly increases, reaching 1 by 08:00 and progressing to 2 at 09:00. The sun moves higher in the sky, and by 10:00, the index climbs to 4, peaking at 6 between 12:00 and 13:00—a clear indication to wear sunscreen and seek shade. After 13:00, the index begins its gentle descent, dropping to 5 at 14:00 and further down to 3 by 15:00. The day's UV activity wanes, going to 2 at 16:00 and back to 1 by 17:00, before returning to a safe 0 from 18:00 onward. Make sure to enjoy the sun thoughtfully during its peak hours!
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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
11:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
12:00 | 6 | 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 |
The UV Index displays significant seasonal variation, with extreme levels occurring from January to March and again in October to December, indicating high-risk months where exposure should be minimized to prevent skin damage, with a notably short burn time of just 10 minutes. In April and September, UV levels surge to very high, requiring caution and limiting sun exposure to 15 minutes. The summer months, particularly May to July, see a decrease in UV intensity, reaching moderate levels in June and July, which allows for longer safe exposure times of up to 30 minutes. However, as UV levels rebound in August and remain high, visitors and residents should consistently apply sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during peak sun hours throughout the year, especially from January to March and October to December.
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 |
Van Wyksvlei | 15 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 6 | 5 | 5 | 7 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 |
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 |