Last updated: August 1, 2025
In Chinsali, Zambia, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin health. With the sun's rays reaching their peak intensity, especially between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM, understanding the UV levels can help prevent painful sunburns and long-term skin damage. Chinsali's Cwa climate presents unique exposure risks, making it essential to take appropriate precautions when enjoying the outdoors. Whether you're planning a day of adventure or simply relaxing in the sun, knowing the UV Index empowers you to protect yourself and your loved ones from harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation.
In the early hours of the day, the UV Index starts low, peaking at 1 at 07:00 before gradually rising as the sun climbs higher in the sky. By 10:00, it reaches a noteworthy 8, escalating to its maximum level of 10 at 11:00 and 12:00—the prime hours for sun exposure. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to decline: 9 at 13:00, followed by a drop to 7 at 14:00. The late afternoon sees it further decrease, with values falling to 4 at 15:00 and down to 1 by 17:00. Finally, the UV Index falls to 0 after 18:00, marking the end of a sun-drenched day. Keep in mind, when the UV Index is high, it's crucial to protect your skin!
| 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 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant seasonal fluctuations, with the highest values occurring in the winter and early spring months. January to April consistently show extreme levels, peaking at 17 in February and maintaining a UV Index of 16 to 15, with a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. As we transition into June and July, the index drops slightly to 10 but stays in the very high exposure category, allowing for a marginally longer burn time of 15 minutes. Subsequently, August and September see a return to extreme categories, where the UV Index averages around 12 to 13. Notably, November and December maintain extreme levels again, emphasizing caution. Visitors and residents should be particularly vigilant from January to April and again in August and September, taking precautions such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize 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 |
| Ndola UVI | 16 | 17 | 16 | 14 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 16 |
| Chinsali | 16 | 17 | 16 | 15 | 12 | 10 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 15 |