Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Heilbron, South Africa, where the climate often leads to higher levels of ultraviolet radiation. As sunburn can occur quickly, being aware of UV levels helps protect your skin health and prevents long-term damage. In this region, typical UV exposure risks peak between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, with an index reaching as high as 6, indicating a need for effective sun protection during those hours. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy Heilbron’s beautiful sunny days safely and responsibly.
As the sun rises, the UV Index remains low, peaking only at 1 until 9:00 AM. A gradual increase sees it reach 6 by noon, indicating peak sun intensity. The high point of 6 persists until 1:00 PM, making this the ideal time to take precautions if you're outdoors. After this, the index begins to decline, dropping to 4 by 2:00 PM and falling further to 1 by 4:00 PM. By the evening, the UV levels settle at 0, ensuring a safe outdoor experience. Remember, during the midday hours, it’s crucial to stay protected under the sun!
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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
12:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
13:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
14:00 | 4 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV exposure in this region experiences significant fluctuations, with January, February, March, April, September, October, November, and December categorized as high-risk months, exhibiting extreme UV Index levels ranging from 11 to 16 and resulting in a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. May and July have a moderate UV Index, shifting to a high risk level, while June sees a decrease to a moderate exposure category, allowing for a longer burn time of 30 minutes. The peak of UV intensity occurs in the winter months, making it especially crucial for both visitors and residents to protect themselves. It is advised to minimize sun exposure during these high-risk months by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and seeking shade whenever possible, even on overcast days.
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 |
Johannesburg UVI | 15 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 7 | 6 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 16 |
Heilbron | 15 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 7 | 5 | 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 |