UV Index in Blantyre, Malawi

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Blantyre, Malawi, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and health. With the region's Cwa climate, which features pronounced wet and dry seasons, understanding UV levels can make a significant difference in preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage. Notably, during peak hours, the UV Index can soar to 9, posing considerable risks for those exposed without protection. By staying informed about these levels, residents and visitors can enjoy the beautiful Malawian sun while taking the necessary precautions to protect their well-being.

Hourly UV Index in Blantyre

As the day unfolds, the UV Index experiences a notable rise, peaking at 9 during the noon hour. Starting from a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, it escalates steadily, reaching 7 by 10:00 AM and 8 by 11:00 AM. The intensity continues to surge, hitting its zenith of 9 at 12:00 PM, before gradually tapering off in the afternoon. By 3:00 PM, it dips to 3, and as the sun begins to set, the index drops to a low 0 by 7:00 PM, signifying a swift decline in UV radiation. This pattern underscores the importance of sun safety during the peak hours of 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, when UV exposure is at its highest. Stay protected and enjoy the sun wisely!

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	4	moderate	30 min
10:00	7	high	25 min
11:00	8	very high	15 min
12:00	9	very high	15 min
13:00	7	high	25 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 Blantyre

The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal fluctuations, remaining predominantly in the extreme category during the winter and fall months, notably from January to April and again in August, September, and October. The highest-risk months for UV exposure are January, February, and March, each with an index of 17, indicating an extreme risk where even brief exposure can lead to skin burns in as little as 10 minutes. As summer approaches, the index drops slightly—though still in the very high range—peaking in May, June, and July, with a burn time of 15 minutes. Residents and visitors are advised to take precautionary measures, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, particularly during these high-risk months to minimize skin damage and maintain health.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Blantyre, Malawi

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Blantyre 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.

Blantyre'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	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
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