Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Mpongwe, Zambia, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. Understanding UV levels helps residents take proactive measures to protect themselves from harmful ultraviolet radiation, especially during peak hours when the index soars to a high of 9 between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM. With Mpongwe's Cwa climate, characterized by a wet and dry season, it’s essential to stay informed about daily UV exposure risks to ensure outdoor activities remain safe and enjoyable year-round. Stay vigilant, apply sunscreen, and seek shade when the UV Index climbs—your skin will thank you!
The UV Index on this particular day showcased a notable peak between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, reaching a high of 9, indicating a very high level of UV radiation. Early risers at 7:00 AM were greeted with a modest index of 1, but as the sun climbed higher, the intensity increased dramatically. At 10:00 AM, the index hit 6, solidifying the day's progression towards its maximum. After the midday zenith, the UV levels began to decline, dropping back to 4 by 3:00 PM and tapering off further, ultimately reaching 0 by 7:00 PM. This pattern highlights the importance of sun safety, particularly during the peak hours when UV exposure poses the greatest risk.
| 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | 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 |
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 |