UV Index
UV Index
Today's UV index in South Africa, South Africa 
will be up to 4.8, indicating a moderate level of sun exposure for the average person. Check our tips for today to make sure you're safe in the sun.
Last checked: 2025-05-08
With a UV index reaching up to 4.8 in South Africa, stay shaded during midday when the sun is strongest; wear protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, UV-blocking sunglasses; apply SPF 30+ sunscreen every 2 hours, even on cloudy days; and be cautious of heightened UV on bright surfaces.
South Africa's UV index ranges from moderate to very high, especially during summer months. UV levels peak around December and January, increasing the intensity of sunlight exposure during these times.
The country experiences distinct seasons with hot, wet summers from November to March and cool, dry winters from May to August. Coastal areas tend to be milder, while the interior can have more extreme temperatures.
Compared to neighboring countries, South Africa has more varied climate zones, ranging from desert in the northwest to subtropical in the northeast. It generally has milder winters than Botswana and Namibia, and cooler summers than Mozambique.
See the UV index hour by hour for South Africa, along with the temperature and how cloudy it is. If the UV level is higher than moderate, it's best to avoid direct sunlight.