Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Mpongwe, Zambia is crucial for protecting yourself and your loved ones from harmful sun exposure. With a climate classified as Cwa, this region experiences significant UV levels particularly around midday, where the index can peak at 9—indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By being aware of the UV levels, residents can take proactive measures to prevent sunburn and promote healthy skin. Regularly monitoring the UV Index empowers you to enjoy the warmth of the sun safely, while minimizing the risks associated with overexposure.
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 |
The UV Index experiences extreme levels year-round, peaking in the first half of the year. January to April consistently shows an UV Index between 14 to 17, categorizing these months as high-risk for UV exposure, with a quick burn time of only 10 minutes. May marks a slight decrease to 11, yet still remains in the extreme zone. The summer months of June and July present a very high UV Index of 9, allowing for a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. As the year progresses, August to October sees a return to the extreme category with values between 11 to 13, while November and December close the year back at 15 to 16. Visitors and residents should be proactive about sun safety, particularly from January through April and during the transitional months of August and September, ensuring to use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and limit sun exposure during peak hours to avoid harmful effects.
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 |
Mpongwe | 16 | 17 | 16 | 14 | 11 | 9 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 15 | 16 |
Ndola UVI | 16 | 17 | 16 | 14 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 16 |