UV Index in Thaba Nchu, South Africa

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Thaba Nchu, South Africa, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. Understanding UV levels can help residents and visitors alike take appropriate precautions during peak sunlight hours, particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM when the UV Index can soar to 7, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. With its Cfa climate characterized by warm summers and mild winters, Thaba Nchu presents unique challenges in sun safety, making awareness of the UV Index an essential tool for everyone to enjoy the outdoors safely.

Hourly UV Index in Thaba Nchu

The UV Index data for the day reveals a dynamic pattern of sun exposure. Starting off at a low level, both 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM maintain a mere index of 1, indicating minimal UV radiation. As the sun climbs higher, 9:00 AM sees the index rise to 3, gradually peaking at 12:00 PM with an intense 7, suggesting it's time for sun protection. The afternoon hours show a slight decline, with 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM still holding strong at 6 and 5 respectively. As the day winds down, the index drops sharply after 3:00 PM, falling back to a 1 by 4:00 PM and eventually reaching 0 by 6:00 PM, marking a safe return from the sun's harsh rays. It's a reminder of the importance of sun safety during those midday hours!

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	4	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Thaba Nchu

Throughout the year, UV levels exhibit significant seasonal fluctuations. The high-risk months for UV exposure are from December to March, during which the UV Index reaches extreme levels of 15 to 16 and burn times are as short as 10 minutes. September and November also show elevated UV risks, with indices of 11 to 14. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during these months, such as wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, while seeking shade during peak hours. As UV exposure decreases in the late spring and summer months, it's still important to remain vigilant, particularly in April and August, where the UV Index can still reach very high levels.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Thaba Nchu, South Africa

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Thaba Nchu 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.

Thaba Nchu'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
Thaba Nchu	15	15	13	10	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