Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Zastron, South Africa, staying informed about the UV Index is essential for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn, especially under the Cfb climate characterized by moderate temperatures. Understanding UV levels helps residents and visitors take proactive measures against harmful sun exposure, which can lead to long-term skin damage. With UV Index values peaking at 6 between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, it's crucial to recognize the daily risks and protect your skin accordingly. Whether enjoying outdoor activities or simply soaking in the sun, being aware of the UV Index empowers you to make informed decisions for a healthier lifestyle.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index begins to rise, peaking sharply around midday. From a gentle 1 at 7 AM, it escalates to a moderate 6 between 11 AM and 1 PM, signaling peak sun exposure. During these crucial hours, it's essential to protect your skin with sunscreen and wear appropriate clothing. As the afternoon progresses, the intensity wanes, dropping to 4 at 2 PM and further declining to 3 by 3 PM. By 4 PM, it returns to a safe 1, and finally settles to 0 after sunset, making late afternoon and evening hours ideal for outdoor activities without the risk of UV damage. Stay informed and enjoy the sun responsibly!
| 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 4 | 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 exposure varies significantly, peaking in the winter and approaching moderate levels in the summer months. January through March, and again in September, October, November, and December, are characterized by extreme UV index values, with a burn time of merely 10 minutes. April marks a transition to a very high UV index of 10 and a burn time of 15 minutes, while May sees a slightly reduced index of 6, categorized as high with a burn time of 25 minutes. June and July maintain moderate levels at 5, allowing for 30 minutes of safer exposure. However, August escalates again to a very high index of 8. Given this information, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to take precautions, especially during the high-risk months from November to March and mid-September, by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sun hours.
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 |
| Zastron | 15 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 6 | 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 |