UV Index in Kuching, Malaysia

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Kuching, Malaysia, understanding the UV Index is vital for protecting your skin and overall health. With its tropical climate and strong sun exposure, awareness of UV levels can help prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. During midday, the UV Index can soar to 12, indicating extreme risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By staying informed about local UV trends, residents and visitors alike can take necessary precautions to enjoy the vibrant outdoors safely, ensuring that fun in the sun doesn’t come at the cost of skin health.

Hourly UV Index in Kuching

The UV Index for today displays a notable increase, reaching its peak at 12 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, signaling a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the day begins, the index starts at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM, gradually climbing to 4 by 9:00 AM. A sharp rise occurs by 10:00 AM, hitting 7, before soaring to an intense 10 at 11:00 AM. After the zenith from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, the index gradually declines, dipping to 7 by 3:00 PM, then back down to 4 at 4:00 PM, before closing the day at 0 by 7:00 PM. With such elevated UV levels during the midday hours, it’s crucial to take precautions—seek shade, wear protective clothing, and apply sunscreen to ensure safety while enjoying the outdoors!

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	4	moderate	30 min
10:00	7	high	25 min
11:00	10	very high	15 min
12:00	12	extreme	10 min
13:00	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	10	very high	15 min
15:00	7	high	25 min
16:00	4	moderate	30 min
17:00	2	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Kuching

The UV Index shows significant seasonal variations, with extreme exposure levels persisting throughout the year, notably from January to May and again in October. The highest UV Index of 16 occurs in February and March, marking these months as critical periods for sun exposure risk. Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious during these months, as a burn can occur within just 10 minutes of direct sunlight. Protective measures such as wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade are highly advised, especially during these peak months. Consistent awareness and precautions are essential year-round to mitigate skin damage and maintain health.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Kuching, Malaysia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Kuching 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.

Kuching'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
Kuching	14	16	16	15	14	12	13	14	14	15	13	13