UV Index in Nkhotakota, Malawi

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Nkhotakota, Malawi is vital for safeguarding your skin while enjoying the beautiful, sunny days typical of this Aw climate zone. Being aware of UV levels can help you prevent painful sunburn and protect your long-term skin health. With UV Index values peaking at 9 around midday, it's crucial for residents and visitors alike to take precautions, especially during the hottest hours when exposure risks are highest. Stay informed and protect yourself against the sun's harmful rays as you explore the captivating landscapes of Nkhotakota!

Hourly UV Index in Nkhotakota

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 Nkhotakota

Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variations, with exceptionally high levels from January to April and again in August to November. The highest risk months for solar exposure are from February to April, where the UV Index reaches a peak of 16, classified as extreme, requiring only 10 minutes of sun exposure before burning occurs. In contrast, during the summer months of June and July, although the UV Index drops to 9, it is still classified as very high, allowing for 15 minutes of safe exposure. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during high-risk months by wearing sun protection, including hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen, and to seek shade whenever possible to mitigate the risk of harmful UV exposure.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Nkhotakota, Malawi

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Nkhotakota 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.

Nkhotakota'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
Nkhotakota	15	16	16	14	11	9	9	12	13	13	14	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 UVI	16	17	16	14	11	9	10	12	13	13	15	16