UV Index in Gwembe, Zambia

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Gwembe, Zambia, is essential for safeguarding your skin and overall health. Awareness of UV levels can help prevent sunburn, reduce the risk of skin cancer, and promote healthier choices when enjoying the plentiful sunshine this region offers. Situated in a Cwa climate, Gwembe experiences significant UV exposure, peaking at 9 around midday, which highlights the importance of being mindful of the sun's intensity. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy outdoor activities while protecting your skin effectively.

Hourly UV Index in Gwembe

The UV Index for the day starts off low, with a maximum of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, providing a gentle introduction to sunlight. As the morning progresses, it climbs gradually, peaking at 9 around 12:00, marking the sun's fierce midday intensity. The index remains high at 8 from 11:00 to 13:00, urging outdoor enthusiasts to seek shade and apply sunscreen. However, by the afternoon, the UV Index begins to taper off, declining to 4 at 15:00 and dropping further to 1 by 17:00, before finally hitting 0 in the evening. This fluctuation highlights the importance of being sun-smart, especially during those critical midday hours when UV exposure can be most damaging.

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	6	high	25 min
11:00	8	very high	15 min
12:00	9	very high	15 min
13:00	8	very high	15 min
14:00	6	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 Gwembe

The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variation, with the highest values occurring from January to April where it consistently reaches extreme levels (UV Index between 15 and 17) and a burn time of just 10 minutes. The high-risk months for UV exposure are primarily from January to April and again from August to November, when the index rises back to extreme levels. In contrast, from May to July, the index drops slightly to very high (around 9 to 10) but still necessitates caution, as the burn time increases to 15 minutes. It is essential for both residents and visitors to take precautions during these high-risk months by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Gwembe, Zambia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Gwembe 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.

Gwembe'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
Gwembe	17	16	15	13	10	9	9	11	12	13	15	16
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