Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the residents of Quelimane, Mozambique, as it plays a significant role in safeguarding skin health and preventing sunburn. With the region's Aw climate, characterized by warm temperatures and abundant sunlight, awareness of UV levels becomes even more vital. During peak hours, particularly between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM, the UV Index can reach as high as 8, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By staying informed about these levels, you can effectively protect yourself and your loved ones from the harmful effects of UV radiation, ensuring safer outdoor experiences year-round.
The UV Index shines a spotlight on the day’s sun exposure, starting off gently at 1 by 7:00 AM. As the morning unfolds, the intensity gradually ramps up, peaking at 8 between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, suggesting this is the optimal time for sun protection. After noon, the UV Index begins its descent, dropping to 6 at 1:00 PM and tapering off further to 2 by 3:00 PM. As evening approaches, the UV levels relax to 1 by 4:00 PM, and ultimately retreat to 0 after 6:00 PM. Remember to enjoy the sunshine wisely, especially during those peak hours!
| 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 4 | 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 |
The UV Index exhibits extreme levels from January to April, with monthly readings reaching as high as 16 and a dangerously low burn time of just 10 minutes. Although UV levels decrease slightly in May and June to the very high range (9-8), these months still pose a significant risk, allowing for only 15 minutes of safe sun exposure. August sees a slight increase back to very high at an index of 10, followed by a return to extreme levels in September and October, where burn times are again limited to 10 minutes. The UV Index remains in the extreme zone through November and December, with consistent values of 14. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautionary measures year-round, particularly during the high-risk months from January to April and September to December, by wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen, and seeking shade to minimize the risk of skin damage.
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 |
| Quelimane | 16 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 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 |