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UV Index in Dowa, Malawi

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Dowa, Malawi, where the sun’s rays can be particularly intense. With a climate characterized by a temperate wet and dry season (Cwa), knowing the UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburn but also plays a vital role in protecting skin health. During peak hours, particularly around late morning to early afternoon, the UV Index can reach as high as 9, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By staying informed about daily UV levels, you can take proactive steps to safeguard your skin while enjoying the beautiful Malawian outdoors.

Hourly UV Index in Dowa

The UV Index shows an engaging fluctuation throughout the day, starting from a modest 1 at 7:00 AM, perfect for early risers who enjoy a gentle sun. As the hours progress, the index climbs steadily, reaching its peak at 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM with a striking 9, indicating intense exposure risk. Sun-seekers should take extra precautions during these hours. The intensity begins to wane by 3:00 PM, dropping to 3, and settles back down to 1 by 4:00 PM through 5:00 PM, eventually fading to 0 by 6:00 PM. This data underscores the importance of sun safety, especially during the midday hours when the sun is at its fiercest.

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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:002low45 min
09:005moderate30 min
10:007high25 min
11:009very high15 min
12:009very high15 min
13:008very high15 min
14:006high25 min
15:003moderate30 min
16:001low45 min
17:001low45 min
18:000low45 min
19:000low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Dowa

During the year, UV Index values exhibit notable variability, peaking with extreme levels in January (17), February (17), and declining through April (14) before leveling off at very high levels in June and July (9). The highest-risk months occur from January to April where the UV Index remains at extreme levels, indicating a burn time of only 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should take precautionary measures during these months, including wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade during peak UV hours. As the year transitions to late summer and fall, UV levels remain elevated, particularly in August and November (both at 15), necessitating continued vigilance against sun exposure.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Dowa, Malawi

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Dowa. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec1717161311991213131516
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Dowa, 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 Dowa UV Index with Other Malawi Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Dowa compares to other major locations across Malawi. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.
Dowa's solar exposure compared to other cities in Malawi. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Blantyre UVI1717161210891112121415
Zomba UVI1717161310991113131515
Dowa1717161411991213131516
Lilongwe UVI17171614119101213131516
Mzuzu UVI161616151110101213131416
Kasungu UVI16171614119101213131516