UV Index in Mbeya, Tanzania

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Mbeya, Tanzania, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful solar radiation. With UV levels peaking to a high of 11 during midday, understanding and monitoring these levels can significantly aid in preventing sunburn and promoting overall skin health. Given Mbeya's Cwa climate, characterized by a dry season and sunny days, residents and visitors alike are at a heightened risk for UV exposure. Staying informed about these conditions allows you to enjoy the sun safely while protecting your skin from long-term damage.

Hourly UV Index in Mbeya

As the sun rises, the UV Index starts low at 1 at 7:00 AM, indicating only minimal risk from UV exposure. By 9:00 AM, it climbs to 3, signaling a moderate level of intensity. The real surge begins around 10:00 AM, when the index reaches 5, suggesting it's time to apply sunscreen. The peak occurs at 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, with a maximum of 11, reflecting high risk and urging caution for outdoor activities. Gradually, as the afternoon wanes, the numbers decline; by 3:00 PM, it drops to 7, then quickly falls to 4 by 4:00 PM. As the evening approaches, the UV Index dips to 1 by 6:00 PM and finally plummets to 0 by 7:00 PM, providing a welcome relief from the day's intense sun. Overall, this day presents a classic pattern of rising and falling UV levels, highlighting the importance of sun safety during peak hours!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
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	5	moderate	30 min
11:00	9	very high	15 min
12:00	11	extreme	10 min
13:00	11	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Mbeya

The UV Index remains consistently high throughout the year, with extreme exposure levels reported from January to March and continuing strongly into July, indicating that sun safety is essential for all residents and visitors. The months of April, May, August, September, October, and November also maintain a high UV Index, though slightly lower than peak levels in the earlier months. Notably, February through April and October present high-risk conditions, where a burn time of just 10 minutes can occur. To ensure safety, individuals are advised to limit sun exposure, wear protective clothing, and apply sunscreen regularly, especially during these high-risk months to prevent skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Mbeya, Tanzania

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Mbeya. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Mbeya, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Mbeya UV Index with Other Tanzania Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Mbeya compares to other major locations across Tanzania. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Mbeya's solar exposure compared to other cities in Tanzania. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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	16	16	16	16	13	11	11	13	14	14	14	15