UV Index in Tawau, Malaysia

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Tawau, Malaysia, where the tropical climate brings intense sun exposure year-round. With UV levels reaching a maximum of 13 at midday, awareness becomes essential for protecting your skin from harmful effects like sunburn and long-term health issues. By monitoring UV intensity throughout the day, particularly during peak hours between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, Tawau residents can take proactive steps to safeguard their skin, ensuring they enjoy the beautiful tropical weather while minimizing risks associated with high UV levels.

Hourly UV Index in Tawau

The UV Index for the day showcases a dynamic shift in sun intensity, peaking at 1 PM with a remarkable 13. As the morning unfolds, the index gradually climbs from a low 1 at 7 AM, reaching 5 by 9 AM. The sun's power ramps up significantly, hitting 9 by 10 AM and cresting at 12 and 13 during the late morning and noon hours. However, by mid-afternoon, the intensity begins to wane, dropping to 10 at 2 PM, then sliding to 6 by 3 PM, before tapering off to 3 at 4 PM. As the day winds down, the UV Index falls back to 1 by 5 PM, and finally rests at 0 after 7 PM, signaling a golden opportunity to enjoy the outdoors while taking sun safety precautions during the height of the day!

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	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	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	10	very high	15 min
15:00	6	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 Tawau

The UV Index exhibits consistently high levels throughout the year, with extreme exposure categories dominating every month. Notably, the high-risk months are January through April, with the UV Index peaking at 17 in March. As a result, the recommended burn time is just 10 minutes for each of these months, indicating severe sun exposure risks. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during these months by wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade whenever possible. This guidance remains crucial year-round, given that no month falls below a UV Index of 12, which still requires vigilance against skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Tawau, Malaysia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Tawau 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.

Tawau'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
Tawau	14	16	17	16	15	13	13	14	15	15	13	12