Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Kasungu, Malawi is crucial for ensuring your skin's health and preventing sunburn. With the region's Cwa climate, marked by high temperatures and significant sun exposure, residents and visitors alike must be aware of the varying UV levels throughout the day. For instance, peak UV levels can reach a height of 9 between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, indicating a serious risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By staying informed about these fluctuations, you can effectively enjoy the beautiful Malawian sun while safeguarding your skin.
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.
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 | 9 | 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 |