UV Index in Kasungu, Malawi

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Kasungu, Malawi, is crucial for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn. With a climate characterized as Cwa, Kasungu experiences significant UV exposure, especially during midday hours when the index peaks at an intense 11. Knowing the UV levels helps residents and visitors alike take essential precautions to enjoy the beautiful, sunny days without compromising their health. By actively monitoring the UV Index, you can better protect yourself against harmful radiation, keeping your skin safe and your outdoor activities enjoyable.

Hourly UV Index in Kasungu

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.

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	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Kasungu

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Kasungu, Malawi

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Kasungu. 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 Kasungu, 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 Kasungu UV Index with Other Malawi Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Kasungu 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.

Kasungu's solar exposure compared to other cities in Malawi. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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