Last updated: June 2, 2025
In the sunny landscapes of Oudtshoorn, South Africa, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels not only helps in preventing painful sunburns but also plays a vital role in reducing the risk of long-term skin damage. The dry BSk climate of Oudtshoorn typically sees elevated UV exposure, particularly during midday hours when the index can reach levels of 4—indicative of moderate risk. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can take proactive measures to enjoy the beautiful sun-soaked days while protecting your skin from harmful UV rays.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a dynamic pattern of sun intensity. In the morning, it starts off low, peaking at 1 by 09:00. As the sun climbs higher, we see a steady increase with the index reaching 3 by 11:00. The highest point occurs from 12:00 to 13:00, where the UV Index hits a robust 4, indicating a need for sun protection during those hours. Following this peak, the index gradually declines, returning to 2 at 15:00, and then dropping back down to 0 by 18:00, marking the end of significant UV exposure for the day. Plan your outdoor activities accordingly to stay safe under the sun!
| 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 4 | 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 |
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 |
| Oudtshoorn | 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 |