Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Matola, Mozambique, as it serves as a vital indicator of the sun's intensity and potential skin health risks. With tropical climate characteristics, Matola experiences significant UV exposure, particularly during the midday hours when values can reach up to 6. Being aware of these levels not only helps in preventing painful sunburn but also plays a key role in protecting long-term skin health. By familiarizing yourself with the UV Index, you can take proactive measures to enjoy the sun safely and minimize harmful effects on your skin.
The UV Index shows a noticeable rise in intensity as the day unfolds, peaking at 6 around noon. Starting early, the day begins with low levels of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, indicating minimal risk. By 09:00, the index climbs to 3, marking a moderate level. The sun's rays hit their strongest point at 12:00, when protection is essential. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually decreases from 5 at 13:00 to 2 by 15:00. By late afternoon and evening, the index drops back down to 1 and then to 0, signaling a safe time to enjoy outdoor activities without the worry of harmful UV exposure. The day underscores the importance of sun protection during the peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 16:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
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.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Matola | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 12 | 12 | 14 |
| Maputo 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 |