UV Index in Mwanza, Malawi

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Mwanza, Malawi is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health in this sun-drenched city. With peak UV levels often reaching 9 around noon, awareness of UV exposure can help prevent painful sunburns and reduce the risk of long-term skin damage. Mwanza, characterized by its Aw climate, experiences high UV radiation, especially during midday, making it vital for residents and visitors alike to stay informed. By tracking UV levels, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors while keeping your skin safe from harmful rays.

Hourly UV Index in Mwanza

The UV Index starts off low at 1 by 7:00 AM, gradually climbing to a moderate 2 by 8:00 AM. The real intensity hits its peak at 12:00 PM with a high of 9, indicating a need for sun protection. From there, the Index dips to 7 at 1:00 PM and further declines to 3 by 3:00 PM. As the afternoon fades, the values plummet, resting at 1 by 4:00 PM and returning to 0 after 6:00 PM. Overall, it's a day where the midday sun commands our attention—be sure to take cover during the 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	2	low	45 min
09:00	5	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 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.

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.
	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
Mwanza	17	17	15	13	10	9	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