Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Grabouw, South Africa, being aware of the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels helps residents and visitors alike prevent sunburn, reduce the risk of skin cancer, and maintain long-term skin health. With Grabouw's temperate maritime climate (Csb), UV exposure can vary throughout the day, peaking during midday hours when the index can reach around 3. Staying informed about these levels will empower you to enjoy the beautiful outdoors safely while minimizing the risks associated with sun exposure.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a gradual increase in sun intensity, peaking mid-afternoon. Starting at 0 at 07:00, the index rises to 1 by 08:00 and remains moderate at 1 for the following hour. As the sun ascends, the intensity reaches 2 by 10:00, climbing further to 3 at 11:00, sustaining this level until 14:00. After this peak, a gentle decline begins, with the index dropping to 2 at 15:00, and gradually easing back to 1 by 17:00, before retreating to 0 by 18:00. For anyone spending time outdoors, the late morning to early afternoon presents the highest UV exposure; thus, caution and sun protection are highly advisable during these hours.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
10:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
11:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
12:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
13:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
14:00 | 3 | 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 fluctuations throughout the year, with the highest levels occurring from January to March and then again in October and November, all categorized as extreme with a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. April and August see a dip into the high range, while May, June, and July are classified as moderate, allowing longer burn times of 30 minutes. Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious from January to March and again in October and November, as these are high-risk months for UV exposure. It's advisable to seek shade, wear protective clothing, and use sunscreen when spending time outdoors during these periods to minimize the risk of skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Grabouw | 14 | 13 | 11 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 14 |
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 |
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 |