Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Kapiri Mposhi, Zambia is crucial for the health and safety of its residents and visitors. Awareness of UV levels informs effective strategies for sunburn prevention and promotes long-term skin health. Given Kapiri Mposhi's Cwa climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters, the risk of exposure to harmful UV rays can be significant, especially during midday when the UV Index peaks at 9. By staying informed about daily UV fluctuations, you can protect yourself and loved ones from the dangers of overexposure, ensuring that you enjoy the beautiful Zambian sun safely.
Throughout the day, the UV Index displays a dynamic pattern of intensity, peaking at 12:00 PM with a value of 9, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Early in the morning, from 07:00 to 09:00, the index remains low, starting at 1 and rising to 4. As the sun climbs higher, the intensity escalates rapidly; by 10:00 AM, it reaches 6, before hitting its crescendo at 11:00 AM with an 8. The afternoon holds steady, with a slight decline to 7 by 02:00 PM, then tapering off as the sun begins its descent. By 16:00 PM, the index drops to 2, and by the evening, it falls to 0 after 18:00 PM. This data highlights the importance of sun protection during peak hours, particularly between 11:00 AM and 02:00 PM. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine wisely!
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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
15:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index values show significant seasonal variations, with extreme levels persisting predominantly from January to April and then reappearing in August, September, October, and November. The high-risk months are January, February, March, April, and November, where the UV Index reaches a peak of 17, necessitating only 10 minutes of exposure before risking burns. Although June and July present very high levels of UV (Index 9), burn time increases to 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should exercise caution and prioritize sun safety measures during these months, such as applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours to mitigate the risk of skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Lusaka UVI | 17 | 17 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 15 | 16 |
Chingola UVI | 16 | 17 | 15 | 14 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 16 |
Kitwe UVI | 16 | 17 | 16 | 14 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 16 |
Kabwe UVI | 17 | 17 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 15 | 16 |
Kapiri Mposhi | 16 | 17 | 16 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 15 | 16 |
Ndola UVI | 16 | 17 | 16 | 14 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 16 |