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UV Index in Mpika, Zambia

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Mpika, Zambia, where the climate typically features hot summers and a tropical seasonal pattern. As UV levels can soar, particularly during the midday hours, being aware of these indices is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. With peak UV exposure reaching up to 10 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, it’s important to take proactive measures to reduce risk. By understanding local UV levels, you can enjoy the sunny Zambian days while keeping your skin safe from harmful effects.

Hourly UV Index in Mpika

The UV Index throughout the day painted a dynamic picture of sun intensity, starting from a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM. As the sun climbed higher, the UV levels gradually escalated, reaching 2 by 8:00 AM and surging to 5 at 9:00 AM. The peak intensity was felt between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, when the UV Index soared to an impressive 10, indicating very high risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. This strong sun began to mellow by 1:00 PM, dropping to 9, before declining further to 6 at 2:00 PM and easing to 4 by 3:00 PM. As the day wound down, so did the sun's intensity, with the UV Index falling to 2 by 4:00 PM and tapering off to 1 by 5:00 PM, finally reaching 0 after 6:00 PM. Stay sun smart and protect your skin during those 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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:002low45 min
09:005moderate30 min
10:007high25 min
11:0010very high15 min
12:0010very high15 min
13:009very 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 Mpika

Throughout the year, the UV Index in this region exhibits significant seasonal variations, primarily marked by extreme exposure levels from January to April, with indices consistently ranging from 16 to 17. Notably, January, February, and March are characterized as high-risk months, where the burn time for unprotected skin is just 10 minutes. Although the UV Index drops slightly in June and July to 10, it remains in the very high category, extending the burn time to 15 minutes. The risk re-emerges in August through November, where levels revert back to extreme, necessitating caution. Residents and visitors are advised to take protective measures during these high-risk months by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when UV exposure is most intense.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Mpika, Zambia

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Mpika. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec161716141210101313131516
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Mpika, 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 Mpika UV Index with Other Zambia Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Mpika 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.
Mpika's solar exposure compared to other cities in Zambia. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Lusaka UVI1717151310991112121516
Chingola UVI161715141110101112131416
Kitwe UVI16171614111091112131516
Kabwe UVI1717151311991113131516
Ndola UVI161716141110101112131516
Mpika161716151210101313131516