UV Index in Zambezi, Zambia

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Zambezi, Zambia, is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. With peak UV levels reaching 9 during midday, awareness of these fluctuations can help prevent sunburn and support long-term skin health. Zambezi's Cwa climate brings distinct seasons, but the risk of high UV exposure is a year-round concern. Whether you're enjoying outdoor adventures or simply soaking up the sun, knowing the UV Index empowers you to take proactive measures for sun safety.

Hourly UV Index in Zambezi

The hourly UV Index reveals a dynamic day of sun exposure. Early morning hours from 07:00 to 09:00 remain gentle, with indices hovering around 1 before the intensity ramps up. By 10:00, it escalates to a moderate 5, reaching its peak at 12:00 and 13:00 with a high UV Index of 9—a crucial time for sun protection! As the afternoon wanes, the index gradually declines, tapering to 5 at 15:00 and down to a mild 1 by 17:00. Finally, the sun gives way to twilight at 19:00, dropping to a UV Index of 0. Enjoy the sunshine wisely!

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	7	high	25 min
12:00	9	very high	15 min
13:00	9	very high	15 min
14:00	7	high	25 min
15:00	5	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Zambezi

Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, with extreme levels persisting from January to May and returning in September and October. The highest risks occur in the early months, particularly January to March, where the UV Index peaks at 17 in February, maintaining a burn time of just 10 minutes. From June to August, the UV Index decreases slightly to the very high category, with a burn time extended to 15 minutes. November and December see a resurgence in extreme levels, closely following earlier high-risk months. Residents and visitors are advised to take extra precautions during these high-risk months, particularly by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours to minimize skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Zambezi, Zambia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Zambezi 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.

Zambezi'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
Zambezi	16	17	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