UV Index in Bethlehem, South Africa

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Bethlehem, South Africa, is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With the region's Cwb climate typically presenting moderate to high levels of UV exposure, awareness of UV levels can help you prevent sunburn and reduce long-term skin damage. For instance, during peak hours—especially around 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, when the index can hit 7—it's vital to take precautions to protect yourself from harmful rays. By staying informed about these UV levels, residents and visitors alike can enjoy the South African sun while prioritizing their skin health and well-being.

Hourly UV Index in Bethlehem

The UV Index for the day provides a clear picture of sun exposure. Starting off gently at 1 in the early hours, the intensity gradually builds, reaching a peak of 7 between 11:00 and 12:00. This is the ideal time for sun protection, as skin can burn quickly. As the afternoon progresses, the index declines, dropping to 3 by 15:00 and further down to 1 by late afternoon. After sunset, the UV Index falls to 0, indicating safe conditions. Stay sun smart, especially during the peak hours for maximum protection!

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	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	5	moderate	30 min
11:00	7	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	1	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 Bethlehem

The UV Index data reveals significant seasonal fluctuations in UV exposure, with January to April and September to November classified as high-risk months, exhibiting an extreme exposure category and a notably brief burn time of only 10 minutes. In particular, December shows a peak UV Index of 17, indicating critical caution is necessary. Conversely, the summer months, May through August, generally present a lower UV Index, with burn times increasing to 25 or 30 minutes, although August has a very high UV Index of 8, urging careful sun protection. Residents and visitors are advised to remain vigilant, using broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during high-risk periods when skin damage can occur rapidly.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Bethlehem, South Africa

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Bethlehem 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.

Bethlehem'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
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
Bethlehem	16	16	13	11	7	5	6	8	11	12	14	17
Soweto UVI	16	15	13	11	7	6	6	8	11	13	15	16