Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Thyolo, Malawi is crucial for maintaining optimal skin health and preventing sunburn. With the region's Aw climate, which features warm temperatures and frequent sun exposure, knowing the UV levels can empower residents and visitors alike to take necessary precautions during the sun's peak hours. Between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, when the UV Index reaches a maximum of 8, the risk of harmful effects increases significantly. By being informed about these levels, you can enjoy the beautiful Malawian sun safely and protect your skin for years to come.
The UV Index begins its day at a low 1 at 07:00, gradually rising as the sun climbs higher. By 09:00, it reaches a moderate 5, signaling increased sun exposure risk. The peak intensity occurs between 11:00 and 12:00, with the UV Index reaching a maximum of 8—a reminder to seek shade and protect your skin! As the afternoon progresses, the index dips to 7 at 13:00 and then decreases further to 5 at 14:00. A gentle decline continues into the evening, with values falling to 2 by 15:00 and eventually 0 as the sun sets around 19:00. Stay mindful of these changes to ensure your safety under the sun!
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 | 8 | 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 |
The UV Index throughout the year indicates that January through April presents an extreme exposure risk with values consistently between 16 and 17, posing a 10-minute burn time. Following this, May to July sees a shift to a very high risk, with the UV Index dropping gradually to 8-10, allowing slightly longer exposures of 15 minutes. August to October returns to extreme levels, requiring caution with a 10-minute burn time reflected by indexes of 11-12. Notably, November and December maintain high risks, with UV levels at 14-15 and a consistent 10-minute burn time. Visitors and residents should remain vigilant, seeking shade and applying sunscreen during high-risk months, especially from January to April and August to October.
UV Risk Categories
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 |
Thyolo | 17 | 17 | 16 | 13 | 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 |