Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Kiratu, Tanzania, where the sun’s rays can be particularly intense due to its highland climate. With UV levels peaking between midday and early afternoon, it's essential to recognize the potential for sunburn and long-term skin health risks. Knowing when you’re at risk not only helps in protecting your skin but also empowers you to make informed choices about outdoor activities. In Kiratu, where UV indices can soar to 12, awareness and timely precautions are key to enjoying the beautiful, sunlit days safely.
The UV Index today showcases a dynamic rise and fall throughout the hours. Starting the morning at a modest 1 at both 07:00 and 08:00, it gradually intensifies, peaking at a striking 12 between 12:00 and 13:00—a clear signal for sun protection. Early afternoon brings a slight decline to 10 at 14:00, followed by a gentle drop to 7 by 15:00. As the day winds down, the index dips swiftly to 4 at 16:00, before settling back to 1 by 18:00 and finally reaching a 0 at 19:00. As the sun makes its ascent and descent, it's crucial to stay aware of these UV fluctuations to protect your skin!
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 | 6 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV Index ratings remain alarmingly high, particularly in the first half of the year. January to March demonstrate the highest levels, reaching a peak of 17 in March, categorized as extreme with a burn time of just 10 minutes. Although there is a slight decrease in June and July, the index remains at 12, still considered extreme. May through September sees UV Index levels fluctuating between 12 and 14, maintaining a consistent high-risk status through to November. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take protective measures year-round, such as wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen, hats, and long sleeves, especially during these high-risk months when burn times are critically short.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Zanzibar UVI | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 |
Dar es Salaam UVI | 14 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 |
Mwanza UVI | 14 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 |
Arusha UVI | 15 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 14 |
Mbeya UVI | 16 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 15 |
Kiratu | 16 | 16 | 17 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 |