UV Index in Lusaka, Zambia

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Lusaka, Zambia, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With the region's Cwa climate, residents and visitors alike are exposed to high UV levels, particularly during midday hours when the index peaks at 10. Being aware of these levels helps in preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage, making it vital for planning outdoor activities. Typically, UV exposure is minimal early in the morning and late afternoon, but between 10 AM and 2 PM, it can reach dangerous heights. Stay informed and protect yourself from the sun’s harsh rays!

Hourly UV Index in Lusaka

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!

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	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Lusaka

Throughout the year, UV Index levels fluctuate significantly, with high-risk months primarily occurring from January to April and during August to November. During this period, UV Index readings reach extreme levels of 17 to 15, necessitating a burn time of only 10 minutes for unprotected skin. Notably, even in May to July, while the UV Index slightly decreases to 10 and 9, the exposure levels remain categorized as very high, with burn times extending to 15 minutes. As a result, visitors and residents must exercise caution during these months by seeking shade, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF, and wearing protective clothing and sunglasses when outdoors, to mitigate the risks associated with sun exposure.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Lusaka, Zambia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Lusaka 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.

Lusaka'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	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