Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the** UV Index in Mbabane, Eswatini**, is crucial for ensuring your skin's health and preventing sunburn. With the city's climate classified as Cwb, residents and visitors alike are exposed to varying UV levels throughout the day. From morning's mild readings of 1 to peak levels of 5 around midday, being aware of these fluctuations helps you take necessary precautions, such as wearing sunscreen, seeking shade, or donning protective clothing. As UV exposure increases, especially during the warmer months, staying informed can make a significant difference in safeguarding your skin against the harmful effects of the sun.
The UV Index for today reveals a dynamic day filled with fluctuating sun exposure. Early morning hours start off mild, with levels at 1 from 07:00 to 08:00, ideal for gentle outdoor activities. As the sun climbs, the index rises to 2 by 09:00 and peaks at 5 between 11:00 and 13:00, signaling a strong need for sunscreen and protective gear during midday. Fortunately, the intensity begins to dip after 14:00, descending back to 3 and eventually settling at 1 by late afternoon. As twilight approaches, the UV Index falls to 0, providing a safe window for evening strolls. Remember to stay protected when the sun is at its strongest!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 5 | 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, UV exposure varies significantly, with the highest levels occurring during the extreme exposure months of January, February, March, October, November, and December. These months feature UV Index values between 15 and 16, with very short burn times of just 10 minutes. As spring approaches, April sees a decrease to a very high index of 10, extending the burn time to 15 minutes. In May, the UV Index drops further to 7 (high), allowing for 25 minutes of safe sun exposure. Summer months, particularly June and July, show moderate to high levels of UV radiation, with burn times of 30 and 25 minutes, respectively. As August and September approach, the UV Index rises again to 8 and 10, maintaining a very high exposure category. To protect themselves, residents and visitors are advised to take extra precautions during these high-risk months, particularly by seeking shade and using sunscreen, especially during the peak UV times.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Big Bend UVI | 15 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 12 | 13 | 14 |
| Manzini UVI | 15 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 15 |
| Nhlangano UVI | 15 | 15 | 13 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 13 | 13 | 15 |
| Mbabane | 16 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 13 | 13 | 15 |
| Malkerns UVI | 16 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 13 | 13 | 15 |