UV Index in Nakonde, Zambia

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Nakonde, Zambia, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels helps residents and visitors alike take proactive steps against sunburn and long-term skin damage. With a Cwa climate characterized by warm days, Nakonde experiences significant UV exposure, especially during midday when the index peaks at a striking 11. By paying attention to the UV Index, you can enjoy the sun safely while minimizing health risks associated with excessive UV exposure.

Hourly UV Index in Nakonde

As the day unfolds, the UV Index reveals a striking increase in sun intensity, peaking at a remarkable 11 at 1 PM. Early on, from 7 AM to 9 AM, the levels hover low between 1 and 3, making it a safe time for morning strolls. However, by 10 AM, the index climbs to 5, signaling a need for protection as the sun becomes more potent. The crucial hours follow with the UV index reaching its zenith at 12 PM with a 10, before slightly receding to 7 by 3 PM. As the afternoon wanes, the index descends to 4 at 4 PM and dwindles to a safe 0 by 7 PM, marking the end of the day’s intense solar exposure. Remember, when the sun shines bright, especially around noon, it’s essential to safeguard your skin!

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	1	low	45 min
09:00	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	5	moderate	30 min
11:00	8	very high	15 min
12:00	10	very high	15 min
13:00	11	extreme	10 min
14:00	10	very high	15 min
15:00	7	high	25 min
16:00	4	moderate	30 min
17:00	2	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Nakonde

The UV Index in our area is notably high throughout the year, with extreme levels persisting from January to May, and again in October and November. These months carry the highest risk, with UV Index values consistently ranging from 16 to 17, resulting in a burn time of just 10 minutes. Even in the summer months, UV levels remain significant, peaking at 12 in May and falling to 11 in June and July before slightly rising again in August and September. It is crucial for both visitors and residents to take protective measures against UV exposure, especially during the high-risk months from January to May and again in October and November. Recommendations include wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade during peak hours to minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Nakonde, Zambia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Nakonde 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.

Nakonde'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 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
Nakonde	17	16	16	16	12	11	11	13	13	14	14	15