Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Ifakara, Tanzania, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With the sun's rays peaking at a UV Index of 12 around midday, awareness of these levels can help prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. Ifakara's Aw climate boasts warm temperatures and clear skies, contributing to heightened UV exposure, particularly during the midday hours. Staying informed about UV levels not only protects your skin but also encourages healthier outdoor habits, allowing residents and visitors alike to enjoy the beautiful, sun-soaked environment safely.
The UV Index today paints a vivid picture of the sun's intensity as it climbs briskly throughout the morning. Starting at a gentle 1 at 07:00, it escalates to a moderate 2 by 08:00. However, the real peak arrives at 11:00, where the UV Index surges to an eye-opening 10, and reaches its highest point of 12 by 12:00, signaling the need for sun protection. As the afternoon unfolds, the index begins its descent, dropping to 6 by 15:00, and continuing to mellow towards 3 at 16:00. As the sun sets, the index falls back to a comfortable 1 by 17:00, culminating in a 0 at 19:00. A good reminder to be cautious during the midday hours when the sun is at its strongest!
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 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 6 | high | 25 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 shows significant seasonal variation, with the highest risk occurring during the months of January through April, where the UV Index consistently reaches 15, indicating an extreme exposure category and a minimal burn time of just 10 minutes. Following this period, May sees a slight reduction to 12 (extreme), while June and July drop to 10 (very high) with a burn time of 15 minutes. As summer transitions into autumn, the UV Index rises again to 12 in August and 13 from September through November, where the burn time remains at 10 minutes. December finishes the year at 14 (extreme). Given these values, it is crucial for visitors and residents to take precautionary measures, including applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during the high-risk months of January to April and the transitional months of August to November.
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 |
Ifakara | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 12 | 10 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 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 |