Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Mwense, Zambia, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels is essential in preventing sunburn and minimizing long-term skin damage, especially as the midday sun can reach a peak UV Index of 10—a level that poses a serious risk with just minutes of unprotected exposure. The semi-arid climate of Mwense intensifies these UV challenges, with sunny days amplifying the potential for harmful rays. Stay informed and take proactive measures to enjoy the vibrant outdoors while ensuring your skin remains healthy and protected.
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!
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 |
The UV Index varies significantly throughout the year, with peak levels occurring from January to April, where values reach extreme levels (16-17) and a burn time as short as 10 minutes. May sees a slight decrease to an index of 12, but still remains in the extreme category. As we move into the summer months, June and July lower the UV Index to 10 (very high), slightly extending the burn time to 15 minutes. The risk remains high through August, September, and October, with indices ranging from 11 to 12. Visitors and residents should remain vigilant for high-risk months, particularly from January through November, and take preventive measures such as seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen to reduce harmful UV exposure.
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 |
Mwense | 16 | 17 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 14 | 15 |
Ndola UVI | 16 | 17 | 16 | 14 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 16 |