UV Index in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and maintaining overall health. With a tropical climate that offers abundant sunshine, locals and visitors alike must stay informed about UV levels to prevent sunburn and other skin-related issues. The UV Index often peaks in the late morning and early afternoon, reaching levels as high as 13, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Regularly checking the UV Index allows you to plan your outdoor activities safely, ensuring your time in this vibrant coastal city is enjoyable and sun-smart.

Hourly UV Index in Kota Kinabalu

As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off low, peaking at 1 by 7:00 AM. A gradual increase ensues, with a notable surge around 9:00 AM, reaching 5. By 10:00 AM, things heat up, hitting a striking 9, and by 11:00 AM, the index reaches 12—a sign to seek shade. The peak occurs at 12:00 PM with an intense 13, persisting for the next hour. As the afternoon progresses, the UV levels begin to decline, dropping to 10 by 2:00 PM, then gently tapering off to 7 at 3:00 PM. The evening brings a cool relief, with the UV index easing down to 1 by 5:00 PM and concluding at 0 after 7:00 PM. Be sure to protect your skin when the sun is at its highest!

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	9	very high	15 min
11:00	12	extreme	10 min
12:00	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	13	extreme	10 min
14:00	10	very high	15 min
15:00	7	high	25 min
16:00	3	moderate	30 min
17:00	1	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Kota Kinabalu

The UV Index shows a consistent pattern of extreme levels throughout the year, with peak values occurring from February to March, where the index reaches as high as 16. These months, along with April and September, are particularly high-risk, indicating the necessity for heightened sun protection. With a burn time of just 10 minutes at the highest UV levels, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to be diligent in applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during the middle of the day, especially in these high-risk months. Even during the cooler months, from November to January, the UV Index remains significant, reminding everyone that sun safety should be a year-round priority.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Kota Kinabalu compares to other major locations across Malaysia. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Kota Kinabalu's solar exposure compared to other cities in Malaysia. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Kampung Baru Subang UVI	13	15	15	14	13	12	12	13	14	14	13	12
Klang UVI	13	15	15	14	13	12	12	13	14	14	13	12
Kuala Lumpur UVI	13	15	15	14	13	12	12	13	14	14	13	12
Kota Bharu UVI	13	15	16	15	14	13	12	13	14	14	12	12
Johor Bahru UVI	13	15	16	14	13	12	12	13	14	14	13	13
Kota Kinabalu	13	15	16	16	14	13	13	14	15	14	12	12