UV Index in Gamba, Tanzania

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Gamba, Tanzania, is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With a tropical climate characterized by significant sun exposure, Gamba experiences high UV levels, especially during peak hours. For instance, the UV Index can reach a maximum of 12 between noon and 1 PM, indicating an extreme risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By being aware of these UV levels, residents and visitors alike can take necessary precautions to protect their skin, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience under the African sun.

Hourly UV Index in Gamba

The UV Index for the day illustrates a clear pattern of rising intensity as the sun climbs higher in the sky. Starting at 1 at 7:00 AM, the index gradually climbs to 2 by 8:00 AM, signaling the start of a moderately low UV risk. By 9:00 AM, it hits 4, marking the onset of more noticeable sun exposure. The sun reaches its zenith at 12:00 PM, where the UV index peaks at an intense 12—a critical time for sun safety. As afternoon gives way to evening, the index begins to decline, dropping to 6 by 3:00 PM and sinking to a gentle 1 by 5:00 PM. Finally, by 7:00 PM, the UV threat diminishes entirely, with a reading of 0. A day's journey through UV risk highlights the importance of protection during those midday 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	2	low	45 min
09:00	4	moderate	30 min
10:00	8	very high	15 min
11:00	11	extreme	10 min
12:00	12	extreme	10 min
13:00	11	extreme	10 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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Gamba

Throughout the year, the UV Index indicates significant seasonal variations, with the highest levels occurring from January to March and again in August. The majority of the months display an extreme exposure category, particularly from January to April and in September. May, though slightly lower, remains a month of concern with a UV Index of 12, while June and July, categorized as very high, offer a brief respite with a burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should remain vigilant during these high-risk months, especially between January and March when the UV Index peaks at 15, suggesting a burn time of just 10 minutes. It is advisable for everyone to take robust sun protection measures, such as wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen frequently, and seeking shade during peak hours, to mitigate the risks associated with high UV exposure.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Gamba, Tanzania

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Gamba. 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 Gamba, 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 Gamba UV Index with Other Tanzania Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Gamba 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.

Gamba'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
Gamba	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
Mbeya UVI	16	16	16	16	13	11	11	13	14	14	14	15