UV Index in Kitwe, Zambia

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Kitwe, Zambia, staying informed about the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin and maintaining overall health. Awareness of UV levels plays a crucial role in preventing sunburn and reducing the risk of long-term skin damage, especially considering the region’s climate, characterized by hot summers and moderate rainfall. As the UV Index can peak at 10 during midday hours, understanding these levels can help residents and visitors alike make informed decisions about sun safety, ensuring they enjoy Kitwe's warm, sunny days while safeguarding their skin from potential harm.

Hourly UV Index in Kitwe

The UV Index throughout the day presents a compelling narrative of sun exposure, peaking at a staggering 10 at 12:00 PM, indicating a need for caution. As the sun rises, the UV Index gradually climbs from 1 at 7:00 AM to a notable 4 by 9:00 AM. The ascent continues, reaching 9 by 11:00 AM, before hitting its maximum at noon. However, as the afternoon progresses, the intensity wanes, with readings dropping to 7 by 2:00 PM and eventually falling to 1 by 5:00 PM. As twilight approaches, the Index dips to 0 after 6:00 PM, promising safe evening conditions. Engaging with the sun requires awareness; ensure you're protected during those peak 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	7	high	25 min
11:00	9	very high	15 min
12:00	10	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Kitwe

Throughout the year, UV Index levels display significant seasonal variations, with the highest readings occurring between January and April, where the index remains in the extreme category (ranging from 16 to 17) and a short burn time of just 10 minutes. May marks a slight decrease, but still maintains an extreme status with an index of 11. The summer months, June and July, show a decline to a very high level (index of 10 and 9), with a slightly extended burn time of 15 minutes. As we progress into late summer and fall, the UV levels spike again in August and September, returning to the extreme category until November, when it again peaks at 15. Throughout these high-risk months, residents and visitors should take precautions such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure, especially during peak hours, to ensure safety against potential UV damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Kitwe, Zambia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Kitwe 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.

Kitwe'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
Chingola UVI	16	17	15	14	11	10	10	11	12	13	14	16
Kitwe	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