UV Index in Malindi, Kenya

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Malindi, Kenya, where sunny skies and tropical climates present both opportunities for outdoor enjoyment and risks for skin health. With UV levels peaking at a high 11 around midday, awareness of these fluctuations can help prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. Malindi's coastal location exposes individuals to significant UV radiation, particularly during the midday hours, making it essential to stay informed and protect your skin whenever you spend time outside.

Hourly UV Index in Malindi

The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dramatic rise as the sun reaches its peak. Starting at a modest 1 at 7:00 AM, it climbs steadily, hitting 4 by 9:00 AM, and then surging to 11 by noon—the highest level of the day. This intense peak at 12:00 PM signals a critical time for sun safety, with values remaining elevated at 10 until 1:00 PM. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually declines to 5 by 3:00 PM, and then drops further, reaching a low of 0 by 7:00 PM. It's clear that during the midday hours, especially between 10 AM and 2 PM, extra precautions are essential to protect against harmful UV exposure.

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	1	low	45 min
08:00	2	low	45 min
09:00	4	moderate	30 min
10:00	7	high	25 min
11:00	10	very high	15 min
12:00	11	extreme	10 min
13:00	10	very high	15 min
14:00	8	very high	15 min
15:00	5	moderate	30 min
16:00	3	moderate	30 min
17:00	1	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Malindi

The UV Index exhibits extreme levels throughout the year, peaking during the first half with values consistently between 14 and 15 from January to April, marking these months as high-risk for sunburn with a burn time of just 10 minutes. As we transition into the summer months, the index remains elevated at 11 to 13, maintaining a considerable risk, especially in May and September. Residents and visitors are advised to take precautionary measures year-round; seek shade, wear protective clothing, and apply broad-spectrum sunscreen diligently to minimize the risks of harmful UV exposure.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Malindi, Kenya

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Malindi. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Malindi, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Malindi UV Index with Other Kenya Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Malindi compares to other major locations across Kenya. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Malindi's solar exposure compared to other cities in Kenya. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Mombasa UVI	14	14	15	14	13	11	11	12	13	13	13	12
Malindi	14	15	15	14	13	11	11	12	13	13	12	13
Kikuyu UVI	15	16	16	16	13	11	11	13	14	14	13	13
Ruiru UVI	15	16	16	16	13	11	11	13	14	14	13	13
Nairobi UVI	15	16	16	16	13	11	11	13	14	14	13	13
Nakuru UVI	16	17	17	17	14	12	13	14	15	15	14	14