Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the residents of Nanyamba, Tanzania, where the tropical climate brings intense sunlight and varying levels of UV exposure throughout the day. Being aware of UV levels is vital for sunburn prevention and maintaining skin health, especially during peak hours when the index can soar to as high as 10. In Nanyamba, the combined effects of a warm climate and high UV levels pose significant risks, particularly from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, making it essential for locals and visitors alike to stay informed and protect their skin to enjoy the vibrant outdoor life safely.
The UV Index reveals a dynamic day of sun exposure, starting off gently with a low of 1 at 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM. As the sun climbs higher, the index begins to rise sharply, peaking at 10 by noon, signaling ideal conditions for outdoor activities—though caution is advised. The intensity remains high as it slightly dips to 9 at 1:00 PM and 7 at 2:00 PM, before tapering off in the afternoon. By 4:00 PM, the index drops to 2, and the sun’s intensity continues to fade, reaching 0 by 6:00 PM. This hourly trend underscores the importance of sun safety during peak hours, particularly from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, when protection is most crucial.
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index in our region shows a consistent pattern of high to extreme levels throughout the year, with only a slight dip during the summer months. January to April maintain an extreme exposure category with a UV Index of 15, presenting a burn time of just 10 minutes. As we move into May, the index drops to 11, still considered extreme, while June and July lower slightly to 10 but remain in the very high category, allowing for 15 minutes of safe exposure. August to October return to extreme levels with indices of 12 to 14, followed by November and December at 14. High-risk months are primarily January through April and again in August to October, where the likelihood of sunburn is significant. Visitors and residents are advised to practice sun safety by wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and limiting sun exposure during these high-risk months, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
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 |
| Nanyamba | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 11 | 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 |