Gauteng residents should take extra care when spending time outdoors on Thursday, 22 October, as the South African Weather Service (SAWS) forecasts very high ultraviolet (UV) radiation levels across the province.
SAWS expects fine and warm weather, with hot to very hot conditions in northern parts of Gauteng.
What temperatures can residents expect?
According to AccuWeather, Pretoria could reach 34°C on Thursday, while Johannesburg could climb to 31°C.
Both cities will experience sunny conditions. There is little chance of rain during the day
The forecast also places the maximum UV index at 12 in both cities, which falls within the extreme category.
What does a very high UV level mean?
Ultraviolet radiation comes from the sun and can damage the skin and eyes when people spend too much time outdoors without protection.
The UV index measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation reaching the Earth’s surface.
UV radiation can also affect people on cooler days. Temperature alone does not determine the risk of sunburn.
What Gauteng residents should know
UV levels generally reach their highest point around midday and during the early afternoon.
People who work outdoors, exercise, walk long distances or participate in sporting activities should take precautions during these hours.
Residents can reduce their exposure by seeking shade, particularly between 11:00 and 15:00.
Wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses that block radiation should come in handy. They should wear clothing that covers skin
Applying broad-spectrum sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor(SPF) of at least 30 can also help protect the skin.
With very high UV levels expected on Thursday, residents should check the latest forecasts and take precautions before spending long periods outdoors.