Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Victoria West, South Africa, where the BWk climate can lead to heightened sun exposure. Being aware of UV levels helps prevent sunburn and promotes overall skin health, ensuring that outdoor activities are safe and enjoyable. With peak UV values reaching as high as 5 around midday, locals should take proactive steps to protect their skin from harmful rays. Whether it’s using sunscreen or seeking shade, knowing the UV Index empowers the community to enjoy the sunny days while minimizing risks associated with excessive sun exposure.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins at 0 at 7:00 AM, offering a safe start to the day. By 8:00 AM, it climbs to 1, indicating minimal risk for most people. As the morning progresses, the UV Index reaches 3 by 10:00 AM, signaling a moderate level that advises some sun protection if you're outdoors. The peak intensity occurs at 12:00 PM with a reading of 5, which translates to a higher risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Fortunately, the UV levels gradually decrease throughout the afternoon, dropping to 3 at 2:00 PM and further down to 1 by 4:00 PM. As evening falls, the index diminishes to 0 by 6:00 PM, bringing relief from the sun's rays. Overall, it’s a day to enjoy the sun safely, with peak caution needed during the midday 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 2 | low | 45 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 |
The UV index experiences significant fluctuations throughout the year, with extreme levels observed from January to March and again in September to December. The highest risk months are January, February, and December, where the UV index peaks at 15 to 16, resulting in a very short burn time of just 10 minutes. As spring approaches, the UV index gradually decreases in April and May, but then rises again in September, emphasizing the need for vigilant sun safety during these high-risk months. Visitors and residents should take precautions such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, particularly during late morning to early afternoon hours when UV radiation is strongest. It's essential to remain mindful of the UV index and adjust outdoor activities accordingly to minimize the risk of skin damage throughout the year.
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 |
| Victoria West | 15 | 15 | 12 | 9 | 6 | 5 | 5 | 7 | 11 | 12 | 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 |