UV Index in Songea, Tanzania

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors of Songea, Tanzania, where the sun shines brightly throughout the year. With typical UV levels peaking in the mid-afternoon, awareness of these levels is crucial for preventing sunburn and maintaining long-term skin health. Songea’s Cwa climate presents unique challenges, as increased UV exposure can lead to serious skin risks, especially during the hottest hours. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the sunny beauty of Songea while protecting your skin from harmful rays.

Hourly UV Index in Songea

The UV Index today showcases a dynamic shift as the sun ascends. Starting with a gentle 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, the intensity rapidly rises, peaking at a scorching 12 from 12:00 to 13:00. This period calls for sunscreen and protective gear, as the risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure is significant. As afternoon gives way to evening, the index gracefully declines, dropping to 1 by 17:00 and finally retreating to 0 at 19:00, signaling a safe time to enjoy the outdoors. Remember to stay protected during the peak hours!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
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	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Songea

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Songea, Tanzania

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Songea. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Songea, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Songea UV Index with Other Tanzania Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Songea compares to other major locations across Tanzania. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Songea's solar exposure compared to other cities in Tanzania. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
Songea	16	16	16	15	12	10	10	12	14	13	14	15
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