UV Index in Welkom, South Africa

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Welkom, South Africa, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for embracing the outdoors safely. Understanding UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health, particularly in a region known for its distinct BSk climate, where typical exposure risks can rise significantly during midday. With UV values peaking at 7 around noon, residents and visitors alike should be vigilant, making mindful choices to safeguard their skin from harmful rays while enjoying the sun’s warm embrace.

Hourly UV Index in Welkom

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!

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	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 Welkom

Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variations, with the highest levels occurring in the winter months, specifically January, February, and December, where it reaches an extreme level of 16. These months, along with March, September, October, and November—all falling under the extreme exposure category—have a very short burn time of just 10 minutes. The transitional months of April and August see a drop to very high levels (UV Index 10 and 8, respectively), while May and July maintain a high category (UV Index 7 and 6) with longer burn times of 25-30 minutes. Visitors and residents should take extra precautions during the high-risk months of January, February, March, September, October, and November by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade to minimize the risk of sunburn and skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Welkom, South Africa

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Welkom 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.

Welkom'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
Welkom	16	15	13	10	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