UV Index in Nkhata Bay, Malawi

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Nkhata Bay, Malawi, is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With a climate categorized as Aw, residents and visitors alike need to be aware of varying UV levels throughout the day. As the sun's rays intensify, particularly around noon when the UV Index peaks at 10, it's vital to recognize the risks of sunburn and long-term skin damage. Armed with this knowledge, you can effectively plan your outdoor activities, ensuring safe sun exposure and maintaining healthy skin while enjoying the beautiful landscapes of Nkhata Bay.

Hourly UV Index in Nkhata Bay

The UV Index throughout the day shows a dynamic pattern of sun exposure. Starting at a low of 1 at 07:00, it gently rises to 2 by 08:00. As the morning progresses, the intensity increases more noticeably, peaking at a striking 10 at 12:00, marking the highest level of sun strength. From there, the index begins its descent, falling to 8 at 13:00 and tapering off to 6 by 14:00. The afternoon witnesses a further decline, with values dropping to 3 at 15:00 and easing to 1 by 17:00. As the sun sets, the index finally drops to 0 at 18:00 and remains insignificant through the evening hours. This data highlights the importance of protecting your skin during peak hours, especially from 10:00 to 14:00, 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	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	10	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 Nkhata Bay

The UV Index in this region remains consistently high throughout the year, with extreme levels ranging from 15 to 16 from January to April, and again in August through November. Particularly, January to April and August to November are considered high-risk months for UV exposure, where the burn time is as short as 10 minutes. From May to July, the index dips slightly but still poses significant risk, with burn times extending to 15 minutes in June and July. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions, such as wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade, particularly during these peak UV months to minimize the risk of skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Nkhata Bay, Malawi

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Nkhata Bay 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.

Nkhata Bay'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
Nkhata Bay	16	16	16	15	11	9	10	12	13	12	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