UV Index in Mpulungu, Zambia

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Awareness of the UV Index in Mpulungu, Zambia is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health, especially in a region characterized by its tropical climate. Understanding varying UV levels throughout the day can help prevent sunburns and reduce long-term skin damage. With peak UV exposure reaching a high of 11 around midday, it's essential to stay informed and take necessary precautions during the sunniest hours. By being mindful of these levels, you can enjoy outdoor activities while safeguarding your skin against the harmful effects of ultraviolet rays.

Hourly UV Index in Mpulungu

The UV Index today peaked dramatically in the late morning, starting from a low of 1 at 07:00 and climbing to an impressive 11 by 12:00. This intense exposure reached its zenith at 11:00, where precautions were essential as the Index hit 10. As the afternoon progressed, the UV levels began to gradually decline, dropping to 4 by 15:00 and further down to a modest 2 by 16:00. By the evening, the sun had softened, bringing the UV Index back to 1 at 17:00, and ultimately fading to 0 by 18:00, when the day's light had nearly vanished. Make sure to stay protected during peak hours to enjoy the sunshine safely!

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	2	low	45 min
09:00	5	moderate	30 min
10:00	8	very high	15 min
11:00	10	very high	15 min
12:00	11	extreme	10 min
13:00	10	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	0	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Mpulungu

The UV Index in this area remains consistently high throughout most of the year, particularly from January to April, where it reaches an extreme level of 16, necessitating a quick burn time of just 10 minutes. As summer approaches, the UV Index slightly dips but remains very high to extreme from May to August, with a minor increase to 12 in May and July. Even in early autumn, the UV Index remains alarming at 13 in September and October, before tapering slightly in November and December, though still at 14-15. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during these high-risk months, especially from January through August, ensuring they apply broad-spectrum sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during peak sunlight hours to minimize the risk of UV damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Mpulungu, Zambia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Mpulungu 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.

Mpulungu'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
Mpulungu	16	16	16	16	12	10	11	12	13	13	14	15