Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Vwawa, Tanzania, where the warm Cwa climate brings significant sun exposure throughout the year. By being aware of UV levels, you can effectively prevent sunburn and protect your skin health—essential for enjoying outdoor activities without the risk of harmful effects from excessive ultraviolet radiation. With UV peaks during midday hours reaching as high as 12, it's important to stay informed about daily fluctuations to ensure your safety and well-being. Embrace the sun wisely!
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dynamic pattern of sunlight intensity. Early morning hours from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM see a mild UV of 1 to 3, making them ideal for outdoor activities without much concern for sun exposure. However, as the sun reaches its peak, the Index skyrockets from 10:00 AM with a 6, peaking dramatically at 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM with a maximum of 12—a clear signal to seek shade and lather on the sunscreen. The intensity gradually tapers off in the afternoon, dipping to 7 by 3:00 PM and slowly declining to 1 by 6:00 PM. By 7:00 PM, the UV Index drops to 0, allowing for a safer outdoor experience as evening approaches. Stay vigilant during the peak hours to protect your skin and enjoy the sunny moments!
| 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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 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, UV index levels remain notably high, especially from January to April, where they peak at 16, indicating an extreme exposure category with a burn time as short as 10 minutes. The risk remains significant into May with a UV index of 12, and while it slightly dips to 10 in June, subsequent months like July and August see the index rise again to between 11 and 13. The trend continues into the fall with September and October also showing high levels of 13, before tapering off slightly in November and December, yet still remaining within the extreme to very high range. Given these findings, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to take necessary precautions during these high-risk months, including wearing protective clothing, seeking shade, and applying sunscreen to minimize health risks associated with prolonged sun exposure.
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 |
| Vwawa | 16 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 12 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 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 |