UV Index in Likoma, Malawi

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Likoma, Malawi, nestled on the picturesque shores of Lake Malawi. With a predominantly Aw climate, the region experiences intense sunlight, making awareness of UV levels essential for sunburn prevention and overall skin health. The UV Index often peaks at 9 during midday hours, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By familiarizing yourself with these levels, you can take proactive measures to enjoy the beautiful outdoors safely while safeguarding your skin from the potential dangers of excessive UV radiation.

Hourly UV Index in Likoma

The UV Index throughout the day reveals a pronounced peak in sunlight intensity, especially between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, where it reaches a maximum of 9. This indicates the highest risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure during these hours. Starting from 8:00 AM, the index climbs steadily, highlighting the importance of sun safety measures as it reaches 5 at 9:00 AM and escalates to 7 by 10:00 AM. As the afternoon progresses, a noticeable decline occurs with values dropping to 5 at 2:00 PM and further falling to 3 by 3:00 PM, before tapering off to 1 by late afternoon. By 6:00 PM, the UV Index diminishes to 0, signifying safe conditions for outdoor activities. Remember to protect your skin during those peak hours!

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	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	5	moderate	30 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 Likoma

The UV Index in this region exhibits extreme levels during the majority of the year, particularly from January to April, where it consistently reaches 16. May marks a slight decrease to 11, followed by very high values of 9 to 12 during the summer months of June, July, and August. As we transition into fall, the index remains high to extreme, peaking again in November at 14. Given this data, visitors and residents should be particularly cautious from January through April and during the peak summer months. It is advised to limit sun exposure to 10-15 minutes, depending on the month, and to utilize sunscreen, protective clothing, and shade during peak hours to minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Likoma, Malawi

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Likoma 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.

Likoma'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
Likoma	16	16	16	15	11	9	10	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