Last updated: May 3, 2025
In De Rust, South Africa, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels can significantly reduce the risk of sunburn, which is not only painful but can also lead to long-term skin damage. In this charming town characterized by its semi-arid climate, the sun can be particularly strong, especially between 10 AM and 2 PM when UV levels peak at 5. Knowing how to protect yourself during these hours is key to enjoying the beautiful outdoors while keeping your skin healthy.
The UV Index for the day begins at a safe 0 at 07:00, making it the perfect time for morning activities. As the sun rises, the index gradually climbs to 1 by 08:00 and 2 by 09:00. The intensity peaks between 11:00 and 13:00, reaching a maximum value of 5—a key time for sun protection! Following this, the UV levels gradually decline, dropping to 4 at 14:00 and then tapering off to 3 by 15:00. As afternoon gives way to evening, the UV Index decreases steadily to 1 at 17:00 and finally back to 0 by 19:00. Remember to enjoy the sun responsibly during those peak hours!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 0 | 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 | 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, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, with the highest values occurring during the early months and the winter season. January, February, and March showcase an extreme UV Index of 14 and a quick burn time of just 10 minutes, making these months a high-risk period for sun exposure. April continues with a very high UV Index of 8, easing slightly to 5 in May and 4 from June to July, where the risk moves to moderate levels. The UV Index increases again in August at 6 (high) and peaks in September at 9 (very high). As temperatures drop, October and November return to the extreme category, while December sees a 15, the highest of the year. Residents and visitors are advised to take precautions during high-risk months—especially in late winter and early spring—by wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen, and limiting sun exposure time to stay safe from harmful UV rays.
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 |
De Rust | 14 | 14 | 11 | 8 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 6 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 15 |
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 |
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 |