Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Dedza, Malawi, where the climate is classified as Cwa, featuring distinct wet and dry seasons. Awareness of UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburn but also plays a vital role in maintaining long-term skin health. Given the significant peaks in UV exposure, especially between 10 AM and 1 PM, when levels can soar to 11, it's essential to take precautions during these hours. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful Malawian sun while minimizing the risks associated with ultraviolet radiation.
As the sun rises, the UV Index climbs steadily, starting at a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it reaches 3, marking the beginning of increased sun exposure. The day continues to heat up, with the index peaking at a remarkable 11 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, indicating a high risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the afternoon sets in, it gradually declines, dropping to 6 by 2:00 PM and subsequently to 3 by 3:00 PM. As the sun begins to descend, the index returns to a safer 1 by 4:00 PM and tapers off to 0 after 6:00 PM. This hourly trend underscores the importance of sun protection during the midday hours when the UV exposure is at its highest.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 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 |
The UV Index experiences significant fluctuations throughout the year, with the highest values recorded during the first half of the year. From January to April, the UV Index remains at an extreme level of 17, indicating a very short burn time of just 10 minutes. May sees a slight decrease to an index of 11, still categorized as extreme, while June and July fall to a very high level of 9, extending burn time to 15 minutes. August and September return to an extreme index with values of 12 and 13, respectively, sustaining a burn time of 10 minutes. As the year closes, October and November show indices of 14 and 15, while December slightly dips to 16, maintaining the critical burn time of 10 minutes. Given this data, visitors and residents should exercise caution, especially during January through April and in August, when UV levels are at their peak. It is advisable to wear protective clothing, use high-SPF sunscreen, and limit direct sun exposure during these high-risk months to ensure skin safety.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blantyre UVI | 17 | 17 | 16 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 14 | 15 |
| Zomba UVI | 17 | 17 | 16 | 13 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 15 | 15 |
| Dedza | 17 | 17 | 17 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 9 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 |
| Lilongwe UVI | 17 | 17 | 16 | 14 | 11 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 15 | 16 |
| Mzuzu UVI | 16 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 16 |
| Kasungu UVI | 16 | 17 | 16 | 14 | 11 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 15 | 16 |