UV Index in Phalombe, Malawi

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Phalombe, Malawi is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With its Cwa climate, characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons, residents and visitors alike face varying UV exposure risks throughout the year. Recognizing UV levels can empower you to take necessary precautions during the peak exposure hours, especially between 11 AM and 1 PM when the index peaks at 9. By being informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the sun safely while protecting your skin from harmful rays.

Hourly UV Index in Phalombe

As the sun rises, the UV Index steadily climbs, peaking at 9 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, indicating an elevated risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. With a notable increase at 9:00 AM to 5 and reaching 7 by 10:00 AM, it's clear that midday sun demands caution. However, as the afternoon wanes, the index drops to 5 at 2:00 PM, followed by a quick decline to 2 by 3:00 PM. By 4:00 PM, the index falls further to 1, and by sunset, it reaches 0, signaling a safe return outdoors without sun protection. Take note: during the hours of 11:00 to 12:00, it’s essential to seek shade and apply sunscreen to safeguard your skin from potential damage!

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	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 Phalombe

Throughout the year, UV Index levels fluctuate significantly, with extremely high levels observed from January to April and again in August, November, and December. The high-risk months for UV exposure occur primarily in the winter and early spring (January to April) and late fall (November and December), where the UV Index remains at its peak of 16-17, demanding only 10 minutes of burn time. During the late spring and summer months (May to July), the index drops slightly to 9-10, allowing for longer exposure times of 15 minutes but still categorized as very high. Visitors and residents should take precautions during these high UV months by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize skin damage and other UV-related health issues.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Phalombe, Malawi

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Phalombe 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.

Phalombe'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
Phalombe	17	16	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