UV Index in Nkhotakota, Malawi

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Nkhotakota, Malawi, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. As a region known for its warm and sunny climate, the UV levels can rise significantly, reaching a peak of 11 around midday. This means that without proper awareness and protection, residents and visitors alike are at risk for sunburn and long-term skin damage. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can take proactive steps to protect yourself—whether that's seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, or applying sunscreen—ensuring your outdoor activities remain enjoyable and safe.

Hourly UV Index in Nkhotakota

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 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