Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Kasungu, Malawi, understanding the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin and overall health. With peak UV levels reaching 10 around noon, awareness can help prevent sunburns and long-term skin damage. The climate in Kasungu, categorized as Cwa, brings warm temperatures and seasonal variations that can elevate UV exposure risks throughout the year. By staying informed about daily UV levels, residents and visitors alike can take proactive steps to enjoy the sun safely and maintain their skin's health.
The UV Index throughout the day shows a dynamic pattern of sun exposure. Starting at a low of 1 at 07:00, it gently rises to 2 by 08:00. As the morning progresses, the intensity increases more noticeably, peaking at a striking 10 at 12:00, marking the highest level of sun strength. From there, the index begins its descent, falling to 8 at 13:00 and tapering off to 6 by 14:00. The afternoon witnesses a further decline, with values dropping to 3 at 15:00 and easing to 1 by 17:00. As the sun sets, the index finally drops to 0 at 18:00 and remains insignificant through the evening hours. This data highlights the importance of protecting your skin during peak hours, especially from 10:00 to 14:00, when the UV exposure is at its highest.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
13:00 | 8 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels exhibit significant seasonal variation, peaking between January and April with extremely high levels, where the UV Index can reach up to 17 and the burn time is as little as 10 minutes. This makes January to April the highest risk months, requiring heightened sun protection measures. As the season progresses into the summer months, particularly June and July, the UV Index slightly decreases to levels classified as very high, with a burn time extending to 15 minutes. However, August and early autumn months like September and October again see a return to extreme levels, reminding visitors and residents to remain vigilant. To ensure safety, it is advisable to use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during peak UV hours, particularly in the highest risk months of January, February, March, and April.
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 |
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 | 16 | 17 | 16 | 14 | 11 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 15 | 16 |