Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Mtama, Tanzania, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful sun exposure. With the region's warm Aw climate, residents and visitors alike need to understand UV levels to prevent sunburn and ensure overall skin health. During peak hours, especially between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, the UV Index can soar to a staggering 12, posing significant risks for overexposure. Being aware of these levels not only helps in safeguarding your skin but also enhances your ability to enjoy the beautiful Tanzanian sun safely.
The UV Index rises steadily throughout the morning, starting at a safe 1 at 7:00 AM and gradually climbing to a peak of 12 by noon. This significant increase signifies a risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, especially between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM when the intensity reaches its zenith. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to decline, dropping to 5 by 3:00 PM and further decreasing to 1 by 6:00 PM. By 7:00 PM, the sun's rays become gentle, with a UV Index of 0, making it a safe time to enjoy outdoor activities. Remember to protect yourself during peak hours to enjoy the sun safely!
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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes throughout the year, with high-risk months identified as January to April and again in August to November, where the UV Index consistently reaches extreme levels of 15 to 14, resulting in a burn time of just 10 minutes. In June and July, the UV Index drops slightly to 10 with a very high exposure category, but caution is still warranted as the burn time increases to 15 minutes. Residents and visitors should take preventative measures during these high-risk months, including wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade whenever possible to minimize UV exposure and reduce the risk of skin damage.
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 |
Mtama | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 |
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 |