UV Index in Chipata, Zambia

Last updated: August 1, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Chipata, Zambia is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful ultraviolet rays. As the sun's intensity peaks throughout the day, being aware of UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and maintaining overall skin health. Chipata's climate, classified as Cwa, presents unique exposure risks given its seasonal variations and high sun positions, particularly during midday when the UV Index can soar to 9. Stay informed and protect yourself from potential skin damage by regularly checking local UV levels!

Hourly UV Index in Chipata

The UV Index throughout the day demonstrates a distinct peak during the midday hours, reaching its maximum of 9 at 11:00 AM and again at 12:00 PM. As the sun rises, the UV Index begins at a mere 1 at 7:00 AM, gradually climbing to 4 by 9:00 AM. However, once the clock strikes 10:00 AM, the intensity escalates sharply to 7 before hitting its zenith. Following this, there is a slight tapering off in the afternoon hours, with values nearing 6 at 2:00 PM and gradually decreasing to 3 by 3:00 PM. As daylight wanes, the UV Index plummets, dropping to 1 by 4:00 PM and finally settling at 0 by 6:00 PM, signaling an end to the sun's powerful rays for the day. This data emphasizes the importance of sun protection, especially during those peak hours between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM.

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	3	moderate	30 min
09:00	6	high	25 min
10:00	9	very high	15 min
11:00	11	extreme	10 min
12:00	12	extreme	10 min
13:00	10	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 Chipata

During the year, UV Index values exhibit notable variability, peaking with extreme levels in January (17), February (17), and declining through April (14) before leveling off at very high levels in June and July (9). The highest-risk months occur from January to April where the UV Index remains at extreme levels, indicating a burn time of only 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should take precautionary measures during these months, including wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade during peak UV hours. As the year transitions to late summer and fall, UV levels remain elevated, particularly in August and November (both at 15), necessitating continued vigilance against sun exposure.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Chipata, Zambia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Chipata 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.

Chipata'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 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
Chipata	17	17	16	14	11	9	9	12	13	13	15	16