Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Nacala, Mozambique, as it plays a significant role in promoting skin health and preventing sunburn. With the tropical climate of Nacala, where sun exposure can be intense, recognizing the daily UV levels helps you make informed decisions about outdoor activities. Between 10 AM and 2 PM, the UV Index peaks at a striking 9, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By staying aware of these levels and taking appropriate precautions, you can enjoy the beautiful Nacala sunshine while safeguarding your skin for the long term.
The UV Index reveals a dynamic pattern throughout the day, beginning with a low level of 1 at 7:00 AM. As the sun rises higher, the index climbs steadily, reaching a delightful peak of 9 by 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, indicating high UV exposure—perfect for outdoor activities but a reminder to wear sunscreen. The afternoon sees a decline, with the index dropping to 7 at 1:00 PM and then falling to 4 by 2:00 PM, suggesting the outdoor conditions are still favorable yet becoming safer. As the day winds down, the UV Index diminishes rapidly, dropping to 1 by 4:00 PM and reaching an inactive level of 0 by 5:00 PM, marking a return to a safer environment as evening approaches.
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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
14:00 | 4 | 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 |
The UV Index shows significant seasonal variation, with the highest values occurring from January to April, where it reaches an extreme level of 16 in January, February, and March, accompanied by a burn time of just 10 minutes. This extreme risk continues in August, September, October, November, and December, maintaining a high index of 12 to 14. The months of May, June, and July see a slight decline, with a very high index of 8 to 10, allowing for a somewhat longer burn time of 15 minutes. Overall, the highest-risk months are January through April and August through November. Visitors and residents are advised to take strong protective measures during these months, including wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing, and to limit sun exposure, especially during peak hours.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Matola UVI | 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 |
Nacala | 16 | 15 | 16 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 9 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 |
Nampula UVI | 17 | 16 | 16 | 13 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 15 | 15 |