UV Index in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels can help you effectively prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage, making it essential for both residents and visitors to stay informed. With a tropical Af climate that experiences intense sunlight, especially between 10 AM and 1 PM when the UV Index peaks at levels of 14, the risk of overexposure is significant. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can better protect yourself from harmful radiation and enjoy the beautiful outdoors safely.

Hourly UV Index in Kota Kinabalu

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its steady climb, starting at a mild 1 by 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it nudges up to 3, signaling the need for some caution. The intensity reaches a notable 6 by 9:00 AM, but it’s from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM when the sun truly asserts its power, peaking at a scorching 14 at noon. Fortunately, the index starts to dip slightly, maintaining a robust 10 at 2:00 PM before gradually descending to a 1 by late afternoon. As daylight wanes, the UV Index drops to 0 by 7:00 PM, bringing a welcome relief as the day comes to a close. Stay sun-smart and protect your skin during those 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	3	moderate	30 min
09:00	6	high	25 min
10:00	10	very high	15 min
11:00	13	extreme	10 min
12:00	14	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