UV Index in Mchinji, Malawi

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Mchinji, Malawi is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful solar radiation. With peak UV levels reaching 9 during the sunniest hours, local residents and visitors must be aware of the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. The climate in Mchinji, categorized as Cwa, means that while the temperatures can be pleasant, the risks associated with UV exposure are significant, especially between 10 AM and 2 PM. By tracking the UV Index, you can take proactive measures to safeguard your skin health and enjoy the beautiful Malawian sun safely.

Hourly UV Index in Mchinji

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.
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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Mchinji

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 Mchinji, Malawi

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Mchinji 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.

Mchinji'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
Mchinji	17	17	16	14	11	9	9	12	13	13	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