Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Ladybrand, South Africa, where the unique Cwb climate provides a diverse range of weather conditions yet poses specific risks associated with UV exposure. Awareness of UV levels plays a vital role in preventing sunburn and safeguarding overall skin health, as harmful rays can lead to greater long-term consequences. During peak hours, especially between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, the UV Index can reach levels of 5, indicating a moderate risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Being informed and proactive about the UV Index can help ensure safe outdoor activities while enjoying Ladybrand's beautiful surroundings.
Today's UV Index presents an interesting daytime pattern. Early risers at 07:00 will experience a low UV Index of 1, which remains steady until 09:00. As the day unfolds, the index climbs to 3 by 10:00, reaching a peak of 5 from 11:00 to 13:00 — a reminder to take sun safety precautions during midday hours. Post-lunchtime, the UV intensity gradually decreases, dropping to 4 at 14:00 and eventually down to 1 by 16:00. By the time the sun sets, the UV Index falls to 0 at 18:00, making for a safe evening outdoors. Remember, protecting your skin during the peak UV hours is essential for staying safe 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
11:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
12:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
13:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 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 |
The UV Index experiences significant seasonal fluctuations, with extreme levels predominantly occurring from January to April and then again in September to November. During these months, the UV Index peaks at values of 15 to 16, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, with a burn time as short as 10 minutes. In contrast, May to July show a decrease to high and moderate levels, with burn times extending to 25-30 minutes. Notably, August marks a return to very high exposure, with a UV Index of 8 and a burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during high-risk months, particularly by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen 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 |
Ladybrand | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 7 | 5 | 5 | 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 |