UV Index in Maputo, Mozambique

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Maputo, Mozambique, is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With its tropical climate and high UV exposure, residents and visitors alike must be aware of the daily UV levels to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. Between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM, the UV Index can reach as high as 5, indicating a moderate risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Embracing this knowledge can help you enjoy the beautiful sunny days in Maputo while safeguarding your skin from potential risks.

Hourly UV Index in Maputo

The UV Index for the day showcases a clear peak during the midday hours, rising from a low of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00. By 09:00, it reaches 2, but the real intensity hits at 10:00, soaring to 4. The maximum exposure occurs around 11:00 and 12:00, both maintaining a 5 on the scale, urging sun-seekers to take precautions. As the afternoon progresses, the index gently declines to 4 at 13:00, then dips further to 3 by 14:00. By the time the clock strikes 15:00, it drops to 2, and the evening sets in with a comfortable 1 at 16:00. After 17:00, the UV Index drops to 0, signaling a safe end to sun-related activities.

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	1	low	45 min
09:00	2	low	45 min
10:00	4	moderate	30 min
11:00	5	moderate	30 min
12:00	5	moderate	30 min
13:00	4	moderate	30 min
14:00	3	moderate	30 min
15:00	2	low	45 min
16:00	1	low	45 min
17:00	0	low	45 min
18:00	0	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Maputo

Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, with January through March being high-risk months, maintaining an extreme exposure category and a rapid burn time of 10 minutes. Following this, April sees a slight decrease to very high levels (burn time: 15 minutes), while May through July transitions to high but with longer exposure times (up to 25-30 minutes). As summer gives way to fall, August and September continue in the high range, then drop to very high in September, necessitating caution (burn time: 15 minutes). In the final months of the year, October and November return to extreme levels, once again with a burn time of 10 minutes, before December wraps up with a similar risk profile. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take protective measures during these high UV periods, especially from January to March and from October to November, to minimize sun exposure and prevent skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Maputo, Mozambique

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

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

Maputo's solar exposure compared to other cities in Mozambique. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Maputo	14	14	12	10	7	5	6	7	9	12	12	14
Matola UVI	14	14	12	10	7	5	6	7	9	12	12	14
Beira UVI	16	15	13	12	9	7	7	9	11	12	14	14
Chimoio UVI	16	15	14	12	9	8	8	10	12	13	14	14
Nampula UVI	17	16	16	13	10	9	9	11	13	13	15	15