UV Index in Nsanje, Malawi

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents of Nsanje, Malawi, where the intense sun can pose significant risks for skin health. Regularly monitoring UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and protecting against long-term skin damage, especially during the peak hours of exposure. In Nsanje’s warm Aw climate, the UV index can reach heights of 8 around midday, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Being aware of these levels enables you to take proactive measures, ensuring safe outdoor activities while enjoying the beautiful Malawian sun.

Hourly UV Index in Nsanje

At dawn, the UV Index starts off low at 1 at 7:00 AM, gradually climbing to a moderate 2 by 8:00 AM. As the sun rises higher in the sky, the UV intensity peaks with values soaring to 8 at both 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, indicating a need for sun protection. The index then begins to dip, falling to 7 at 1:00 PM and further down to 4 by 2:00 PM, revealing a gradual reduction in UV exposure as the afternoon progresses. By mid-afternoon, the levels continue to decline, resting at 2 by 3:00 PM and eventually returning to 1 by 4:00 PM. As the day winds down into the evening, UV levels drop to 0 by 6:00 PM, signaling a safe time to enjoy the outdoors without concern for UV exposure.

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	8	very high	15 min
13:00	7	high	25 min
14:00	4	moderate	30 min
15:00	2	low	45 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 Nsanje

Throughout the year, UV Index levels demonstrate significant seasonal variation, with the highest indices occurring from January to March. During these months, the UV Index reaches a peak of 16 and is categorized as extreme, meaning unprotected skin can burn in just 10 minutes. As the year progresses into April, the index drops slightly to 12, remaining extreme, before transitioning to very high levels of 9-10 from May to August, where the burn time increases to 15 minutes. A notable rise occurs again in September as the index spikes to 12, followed by October and November at 14. Residents and visitors are advised to exercise extreme caution from January to April and again in September through November, ensuring adequate sun protection such as sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing, especially during peak sun hours.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Nsanje, Malawi

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Nsanje 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.

Nsanje'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
Nsanje	16	16	15	12	9	8	8	10	12	12	14	14
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
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