Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Clocolan, South Africa, where the unique climate brings varying levels of sun exposure throughout the day. Being aware of UV levels can significantly aid in sunburn prevention and protect your long-term skin health. With the UV Index peaking at 7 during midday hours, it’s essential to take precautions against potential skin damage, especially under the intense sun typical of the Cwb climate zone. By armoring yourself with this knowledge, you can safely enjoy the beautiful sunny days Clocolan has to offer!
At dawn, the UV Index starts off low, with a maximum of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00. As the sun rises higher, it reaches 3 by 09:00, before climbing to a peak of 7 at 12:00. This midday intensity signifies a need for sun protection, especially during the height of the day when UV exposure is most potent. The index begins to decline in the afternoon, dropping to 5 at 14:00 and settling back to 1 by 17:00. By 18:00 and into the evening, the UV Index sharply drops to 0, marking a safe time to enjoy outdoor activities without the risk of sunburn. Stay sun-safe!
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 | 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 | 1 | low | 45 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV index levels exhibit significant seasonal variation, with extreme levels persisting from January through April and then again in September, October, and November. The high-risk months are notable in the winter and fall, where UV indices peak at 16 in January and December, indicating a 10-minute burn time. As the seasons transition to late spring and early summer, UV exposure shifts to high and moderate categories, where May and July feature UV indices of 7 and 6 respectively, allowing for extended burn times of 25 to 30 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to prioritize sun protection—such as wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, and protective clothing—especially during the extreme months and to remain vigilant even in the high-risk summer months to minimize the risk of skin damage.
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 |
Clocolan | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 7 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 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 |