UV Index in Monkey Bay, Malawi

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Monkey Bay, Malawi, being aware of the UV Index is essential for safeguarding your skin in this sun-soaked climate. With temperatures often reflecting the Aw climate zone, understanding the daily UV levels can help you prevent sunburn and protect your long-term skin health. As solar exposure peaks between 10 AM and 1 PM—where the UV Index reaches as high as 9—it's crucial to stay informed about these numbers to enjoy the outdoors safely and effectively. By monitoring the UV Index, you can make informed choices about safe sun exposure, ensuring your time in this beautiful region remains healthy and enjoyable.

Hourly UV Index in Monkey Bay

As the sun climbs higher in the sky, the UV Index reaches its peak during midday, showcasing a striking pattern in the hourly data. Starting at a modest 1 by 07:00, it gradually escalates, hitting 2 by 08:00. The intensity continues to rise, peaking at a formidable 9 by both 11:00 and 12:00—a clear invitation to slather on the sunscreen! As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to decline, dropping to 7 at 13:00, and gently tapering off to 3 by 15:00. By late afternoon and into the evening, the UV threat recedes, plummeting to 1 at 16:00, and finally fading into 0 from 18:00 onward. This hourly journey underscores the importance of sun safety at its zenith!

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	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 Monkey Bay

The UV Index experiences extreme levels throughout much of the year, particularly from January to March and April, when values are consistently high at 16. As we transition into May, the index drops slightly to 10 but remains in the very high range until July. August sees a return to the extreme category with an index of 11, persisting until October. The high-risk months for UV exposure are therefore from January to March, and again in August, with significant risks noted in November as well. Residents and visitors are advised to take vigilant precautions during these periods, including seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen frequently, particularly during peak sunlight hours, to minimize the risk of skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Monkey Bay, Malawi

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Monkey 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.

Monkey 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
Monkey Bay	16	16	16	13	10	9	9	11	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