Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Kigonsera, Tanzania, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn. Understanding the varying UV levels throughout the day helps residents and visitors alike to make informed decisions about outdoor activities, especially during peak hours when the index can soar to 10. Kigonsera's Aw climate brings ample sunshine, which, while enjoyable, poses significant risks for overexposure. By staying informed about UV levels, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from harmful effects, ensuring a safe and pleasant experience in this vibrant location.
The UV Index for the day showcases a dramatic rise in sun intensity, peaking at 10 between noon and 1 PM. Early hours start off mild, with readings of 1 at 7 AM and 8 AM, which is perfect for morning strolls. As the clock ticks, the index climbs steadily; 3 by 9 AM and 5 by 10 AM signaling the sun’s strength is on the rise. The real heat kicks in at 11 AM, reaching 8, and then hitting its maximum of 10 during the critical midday hours. As the sun starts to wane post-1 PM, the index gradually drops, settling back down to 3 by 4 PM and returning to a cool 1 by 7 PM, making later hours a safer time to enjoy outdoor activities. Remember to stay protected during those 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | 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 |
During the year, extreme UV Index levels remain consistently high from January to April, with values of 16 and a brief burn time of just 10 minutes. May marks a slight decrease to a UV Index of 12, classified as extreme as well, while June and July see a drop to 10 but remain in the very high category, allowing for a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. As summer transitions into fall, UV Index values begin to fluctuate again, peaking at 14 in September and reducing to 13 in October, both still in the extreme range. November and December maintain a high risk at 14 and 15, respectively. Visitors and residents should be particularly vigilant from January to April and during the fall months of September through December, utilizing sunscreen, protective clothing, and avoiding prolonged sun exposure to minimize risks of sunburn and 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 |
| Kigonsera | 16 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 12 | 10 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 15 |
| 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 |