Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Mtwara, Tanzania, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. Understanding the fluctuating levels of ultraviolet radiation throughout the day helps residents and visitors alike take necessary precautions against harmful exposure. With Mtwara's Aw climate, characterized by warm temperatures and strong sun, the UV Index can reach dangerous levels—peaking at 10 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM. Prioritizing UV awareness not only protects your skin but also promotes overall wellness in this vibrant coastal city. Stay educated, stay protected!
Throughout the day, the UV Index fluctuated significantly, peaking at a maximum of 10 between noon and 1 PM, signaling intense sun exposure. Early morning hours started off mild, with indices of 1 from 7 AM to 8 AM. However, by 9 AM, the index ramped up to 3, and soon after, it surged to 6 at 10 AM. As the sun reached its zenith, the UV levels climbed to their highest, requiring extra caution. Fortunately, a gradual decline began in the afternoon, with readings dropping to 5 at 3 PM, and continuing to fall to 2 by 4 PM. As evening approached, the UV levels settled to 1 from 5 PM onwards, ultimately reaching 0 by 7 PM, marking the end of a day characterized by vibrant sun exposure and the need for sun protection during peak hours.
| 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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV exposure remains notably high, particularly from January to April, where the UV Index consistently peaks at 15, classifying it as extreme with a minimal burn time of just 10 minutes. As we move into May, the UV Index drops slightly to 11, still categorized as extreme, before declining further in June and July to a UV Index of 10, now in the very high category with a burn time of 15 minutes. August through October see a resurgence, with UV Index values returning to the extreme zone, highlighting September and November as particularly high-risk months. Residents and visitors should prioritize sun safety during these peak UV months by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen regularly to mitigate the risk of sunburn and long-term 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 |
| Mtwara | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 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 |