Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Basotu, Tanzania, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and health. Understanding the UV levels not only helps in preventing painful sunburns but also plays a vital role in safeguarding against long-term skin damage. Located in a Cwb climate zone, Basotu often experiences intense sun exposure, particularly between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, when the UV Index peaks at a striking 12. By staying informed about UV levels, residents and visitors can take proactive measures to enjoy the sun safely and maintain healthy skin.
The UV Index fluctuates dramatically throughout the day, peaking in intensity around noon. Starting at a mild 1 at 07:00, the index gradually climbs, reaching 6 by 10:00. The sun's strength culminates at a blazing 12 from 12:00 to 13:00, making this the most crucial time to protect your skin. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to dip, dropping to 10 at 14:00, then easing down to 7 by 15:00. By evening, the levels plummet, settling back to a safe 0 by 19:00. It's wise to stay sun-savvy: midday is when the UV rays can be most harmful!
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 | 9 | 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 |
The UV index in this region remains extremely high throughout the year, with values consistently ranging from 14 to 17. The highest UV index is recorded in March at 17, closely followed by January, February, and April, all at 16. Visitors and residents should be particularly vigilant from January to April, as these months represent the peak risk for skin damage, with a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. Even in the summer months, such as June and July, where the UV index slightly decreases to 11 and 12 respectively, precaution is still crucial given the extreme exposure category. It is advised for everyone to take protective measures such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during peak sun hours.
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 |
Basotu | 16 | 16 | 17 | 16 | 14 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 14 |