UV Index in Mumbwa, Zambia

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Mumbwa, Zambia, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful sun exposure. Understanding UV levels helps you take preventive measures against sunburn and long-term skin damage, particularly in a region like Mumbwa, where the Cwa climate can lead to elevated UV risks, especially during midday hours. With peak UV Index levels reaching up to 9 around noon, it’s vital to plan your outdoor activities wisely and protect yourself effectively to enjoy the sun safely.

Hourly UV Index in Mumbwa

The UV Index today tells a compelling story of sun exposure throughout the day. Starting low at 1 by 07:00, it gradually climbs to a moderate 3 by 09:00. As the day progresses, the intensity peaks impressively at 9 around 12:00, signaling that the sun is at its most powerful. The afternoon remains vibrant but begins to taper off as we see a drop to 4 by 15:00. Post-sunset, the UV Index plummets to 0 between 18:00 and 19:00, indicating a retreat from harmful rays. It’s a day where staying sun-smart is crucial during the midday hours, especially between 10:00 and 14:00.

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	3	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	8	very high	15 min
14:00	6	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Mumbwa

The UV Index reveals significant seasonal variations, with extreme exposure persisting from January through May, where the UV Index remains high, peaking at 17 in January and February. As summer approaches, from June to July, the index drops slightly to 9, categorized as very high, before rising again in August with an extreme index of 11. The high-risk months are primarily during the winter and early spring (January to May) and again as summer ends (August to November), where the burn time remains critically low, at just 10 minutes for most months. Residents and visitors are advised to take precautions during these periods, including applying ample sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during peak sun hours to minimize the risk of UV-related health issues.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Mumbwa, Zambia

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

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

Mumbwa's solar exposure compared to other cities in Zambia. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
Mumbwa	17	17	15	13	11	9	9	11	12	13	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
Ndola UVI	16	17	16	14	11	10	10	11	12	13	15	16