UV Index in Tawau, Malaysia

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Tawau, Malaysia, where the sun's intensity can pose significant risks to skin health. With its tropical climate, Tawau experiences high UV levels, especially during peak hours when the index can reach as high as 13. Being aware of these fluctuations can help you prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage, ensuring you enjoy the outdoors safely. Take precautions, particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM, when the UV levels peak, allowing you to make the most of Tawau's sunny weather without compromising your health.

Hourly UV Index in Tawau

As the day unfolds, the UV Index rises dramatically, peaking at 13 around 12:00 PM, signaling a maximum level of sun intensity. Early morning hours start off mild, with a low of 1 at 07:00 and climbing steadily to 6 by 09:00. The sun reaches its zenith at 11:00, with a value of 12, before gradually declining through the afternoon. By 15:00, the index drops to 6, further falling to 3 by 16:00 and finally returning to a safe 1 by 17:00. As twilight approaches, the index settles to 0 after 19:00, providing a serene close to the day. Remember to protect your skin during the peak hours from 10 AM to 2 PM, when the sun's rays are most potent!

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	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	9	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