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UV Index in Mwanza, Malawi

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Mwanza, Malawi, is crucial for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn. With a climate characterized by high UV exposure, particularly at midday with indices peaking at 9, it’s essential to be aware of these levels to enjoy the sun safely. By being informed about the UV Index, you can take proactive measures—like wearing sunscreen and protective clothing—when enjoying the outdoors, especially when the sun’s intensity is at its highest between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM. Staying vigilant not only helps prevent immediate discomfort but also reduces the long-term risks associated with overexposure to ultraviolet rays.

Hourly UV Index in Mwanza

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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:002low45 min
09:004moderate30 min
10:007high25 min
11:008very high15 min
12:009very high15 min
13:007high25 min
14:005moderate30 min
15:003moderate30 min
16:001low45 min
17:001low45 min
18:000low45 min
19:000low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Mwanza

Throughout the year, the UV Index displays significant seasonal changes, with notable peaks during the winter and early spring months. The highest UV levels occur from January to April, maintaining an extreme exposure category with an index of 17 to 15 and a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. Meanwhile, from May to July, the index decreases slightly to the very high category, with burn times extending to 15 minutes. However, in August to November, the UV Index returns to the extreme category, particularly in August and November, with a UV Index reaching up to 14. Visitors and residents should remain vigilant, especially during the high-risk months of January through April and August through November, taking precautions such as wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade to minimize sun exposure.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Mwanza, Malawi

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Mwanza. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec1717151310991212131415
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Mwanza, 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 Mwanza UV Index with Other Malawi Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Mwanza 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.
Mwanza's solar exposure compared to other cities in Malawi. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Blantyre UVI1717161210891112121415
Mwanza1717151310991112121415
Zomba UVI1717161310991113131515
Lilongwe UVI17171614119101213131516
Mzuzu UVI161616151110101213131416
Kasungu UVI16171614119101213131516