UV Index in Lusaka, Zambia

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Lusaka, Zambia, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With UV levels peaking around midday, understanding how to interpret these figures can help prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. Lusaka's climate, characterized by its Cwa classification, exposes residents and visitors to varied UV radiation throughout the year. During the hottest hours, particularly between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM when the UV Index can reach a high of 9, it is essential to take precautions to safeguard your skin and enjoy the vibrant outdoors safely.

Hourly UV Index in Lusaka

The UV Index today tells a compelling story of sun exposure throughout the day. Starting low at 1 by 07:00, it gradually climbs to a moderate 3 by 09:00. As the day progresses, the intensity peaks impressively at 9 around 12:00, signaling that the sun is at its most powerful. The afternoon remains vibrant but begins to taper off as we see a drop to 4 by 15:00. Post-sunset, the UV Index plummets to 0 between 18:00 and 19:00, indicating a retreat from harmful rays. It’s a day where staying sun-smart is crucial during the midday hours, especially between 10:00 and 14:00.

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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:002low45 min
09:003moderate30 min
10:006high25 min
11:008very high15 min
12:009very high15 min
13:008very high15 min
14:006high25 min
15:004moderate30 min
16:002low45 min
17:001low45 min
18:000low45 min
19:000low45 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec1717151310991112141516
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.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Lusaka1717151310991112121516
Chingola UVI161715141110101112131416
Kitwe UVI16171614111091112131516
Kabwe UVI1717151311991113131516
Ndola UVI161716141110101112131516