Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Kawambwa, Zambia, where sun exposure can significantly impact skin health. With high UV levels peaking at 10 around midday, awareness can help prevent painful sunburns and long-term skin damage. Kawambwa's warm climate, characterized by its Aw zone classification, means that as UV levels rise, so do the risks of overexposure. By staying informed about daily UV fluctuations, you can enjoy the sun safely and protect your skin from harmful effects.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index experiences a notable rise, peaking at a maximum of 10 between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Early morning rays see the index start modestly at 1 at 07:00, gradually climbing to 4 by 09:00. The sun reaches its zenith at noon, prompting a cautious approach to outdoor activities. From 1:00 PM, the index begins a gradual decline, tapering to 4 by 3:00 PM, and reverting to safer levels below 2 by 4:00 PM. As daylight wanes, the index drops to 0 after 6:00 PM, signaling that the sun's intensity has fully subsided. Remember to stay sun-safe during peak hours!
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 | 10 | 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 |
The UV Index data reveals significant seasonal changes in ultraviolet radiation exposure, with January through April maintaining a consistently high UV Index of 16, classified as extreme, indicating a burn time of just 10 minutes. As summer approaches, from June to July, the UV Index slightly decreases to 10, categorized as very high, yet still poses a risk with a burn time of 15 minutes. The high-risk months are clearly identified as the first four months of the year, with February and March specifically showing a relentless level of UV exposure. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to protect themselves with appropriate sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade, particularly during these months. The risk remains elevated through August, October, and November, highlighting the need for continued vigilance against UV radiation throughout much of the year.
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 |
Ndola UVI | 16 | 17 | 16 | 14 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 16 |
Kawambwa | 16 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 12 | 10 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 |