Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Misungwi, Tanzania, a region known for its warm, Aw climate. With UV exposure peaks reaching as high as 13, awareness of UV levels is essential for protecting your skin from harmful effects like sunburn and long-term health risks. As the sun climbs higher throughout the day, particularly around midday, the risk of overexposure increases significantly. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can take proactive steps to safeguard your skin while enjoying the beautiful Tanzanian outdoors.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts fairly low, peaking at 1 at both 07:00 and 08:00. By 09:00, the index climbs to 4, signaling the onset of stronger rays. The real intensity kicks in around 10:00, where it reaches 7, and it soars to a striking 11 at 11:00—making it crucial to seek shade or wear protection. The UV Index hits its maximum at 12:00, soaring to 13, and remains high until 13:00. From there, it begins to decline, dropping to 12 by 14:00, and further diminishing to 8 by 15:00. As the sun sets, the levels continue to fall, landing at 4 by 16:00, then easing down to 2, 1, and finally 0 by 19:00. This pattern clearly underscores the importance of sun safety during the peak hours, especially between 11:00 and 13:00.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index varies little, consistently remaining in the extreme exposure category, particularly from January to April, where it peaks at 16 in March. This indicates a significant risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, especially during these high-risk months. Even in late spring and summer, when the UV Index drops slightly, burn times remain dangerously low at just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautionary measures year-round, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, particularly from January through April and during other months when UV levels are elevated. Always be mindful of your time in the sun to avoid 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 |
Mwanza UVI | 14 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 |
Misungwi | 14 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 12 | 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 |