Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Kalengwa, Zambia, as it directly influences skin health and sunburn prevention. With Kalengwa's climate characterized by high UV levels, particularly around midday, it's essential to be aware of daily fluctuations in UV exposure. During peak hours, the UV Index can reach a critical level of 9, underscoring the need for effective sun protection strategies. By staying informed about UV levels, you can enjoy the beautiful Zambian outdoors while safeguarding your skin against harmful effects.
At 07:00, the UV Index starts low at 1, maintaining this gentle level until 09:00, where it rises to 3. The real intensity kicks in by 10:00 with a notable increase to 5., peaking at 12:00 and 13:00 with a maximum UV Index of 9—a critical time for sun protection. As the afternoon progresses, 14:00 sees a slight dip to 7, followed by a more significant decrease at 15:00 down to 4. The UV levels then drop steadily, returning to a safe 1 by 17:00 and continuing to fade into the evening, resting at a minimal 0 by 19:00. Enjoy the sun responsibly and remember to reapply sunscreen during peak hours!
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 | 9 | 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 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
During the year, UV levels vary significantly, with extreme exposure categories dominating in the first half and late fall months. The highest UV indices occur from January to April, peaking at 16, where a burn time of just 10 minutes warrants serious precaution. May sees a slight decrease to an index of 11, still classified as extreme, before transitioning to very high levels in June through August, where burn time increases to 15 minutes. The UV index rises again in September and remains high through November and December with values up to 15. Consequently, both residents and visitors are strongly advised to take protective measures, particularly during high-risk months from January to April and again in September to November, utilizing sunscreen, protective clothing, and minimizing sun exposure during peak hours.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Kalengwa | 16 | 16 | 15 | 14 | 11 | 9 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 15 | 15 |
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 |