UV Index in Mbala, Zambia

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Mbala, Zambia, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful sun exposure. Understanding the UV levels can help you prevent sunburn and maintain overall skin health, especially in this Aw climate where the sun's intensity can peak dangerously high. During the peak hours—particularly from 10 AM to 1 PM, when the UV Index can soar up to 13—residents and visitors should take extra precautions. By staying informed about local UV conditions, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors while keeping your skin safe and healthy.

Hourly UV Index in Mbala

The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dramatic rise and fall, peaking at 12 around 12:00 PM. The morning starts gently, with a maximum of 3 at 08:00 AM, but by 10:00 AM, it escalates to 10, indicating a significant increase in sun intensity. This reaches its zenith at 12:00 PM, where a UV Index of 13 emphasizes the need for sun protection. The intensity begins to taper off after this peak, dropping to 4 by 15:00 PM and further declining to 1 by 17:00 PM. As the evening approaches, the UV Index effectively returns to 0 after 18:00 PM, signaling the end of sun exposure risk for the day. Be mindful of these fluctuations and prioritize sun safety during 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.
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	10	very high	15 min
11:00	12	extreme	10 min
12:00	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	11	extreme	10 min
14:00	8	very high	15 min
15:00	4	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Mbala

The UV Index in the region remains extremely high for most of the year, peaking at 16 from January through April, with a consistent rating of 13 to 14 from May through November. The high-risk months are from January to April and July through October, where exposure can lead to skin damage in as little as 10 minutes. June sees a slight drop to very high levels with a 15-minute burn time. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during these months: seek shade, wear protective clothing, and use sunscreen liberally to minimize the risk of harmful UV exposure. Protecting your skin is essential, particularly during the peak months of summer.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Mbala, Zambia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Mbala 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.

Mbala'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
Mbala	16	16	16	16	13	10	11	13	13	14	14	15