Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Sepuka, Tanzania, where the climate often amplifies sun exposure risks. With a tropical Aw climate, the sun's intensity can be particularly high, reaching a maximum UV Index of 12 at noon—indicating a significant risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Being aware of these UV levels is vital for effective sunburn prevention and maintaining long-term skin health. By understanding when to seek shade and apply sunscreen, individuals can enjoy the vibrant outdoor activities that Sepuka has to offer while protecting themselves from harmful ultraviolet rays.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a dynamic shift in sun strength. Starting off with a gentle maximum of 1 at both 07:00 and 08:00, the intensity begins to rise, reaching a moderate level of 3 by 09:00. As the clock strikes 10:00, the index leaps to 6, and by 11:00, it surges to 9, indicating increasing caution is needed. The day peaks at a scorching 11 at 12:00 and reaches its zenith with an astounding 12 at 13:00. A gradual decline follows, with levels dropping to 10 at 14:00, then 7 at 15:00, and finally settling back to 4 at 16:00. As the sun starts to set, the index plummets to 2 at 17:00, then quiets to 1 by 18:00, before dropping to 0 at 19:00. Be sure to take care during those peak hours!
| 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 | 5 | 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 consistently remains at an extreme level, especially from January through April, where it peaks at 16. This indicates a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, with a burn time of just 10 minutes for most individuals. While the index slightly declines in May and June, it still remains substantial at 13 and 11, respectively. Notably, July and August see a marginal increase back to 12 and 13 before tapering off slightly in September at 15. The UV Index continues to remain notably high into the late months, with figures still resting at 13 in October and November, and 14 in December. Therefore, both visitors and residents are advised to take precautionary measures year-round, particularly during high-risk months from January to April, by wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade whenever possible 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 |
| 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 |
| Sepuka | 16 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 13 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 13 | 13 | 14 |
| Mbeya UVI | 16 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 15 |