UV Index in Siavonga, Zambia

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Siavonga, Zambia, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for protecting skin health and preventing sunburn. Understanding UV levels helps residents and visitors alike take necessary precautions against the sun’s harmful rays, especially during peak hours when the UV Index soars to as high as 8. Siavonga’s warm Aw climate offers plenty of sunshine, but this also means higher exposure risks during the late morning and early afternoon. By being aware of the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors while safeguarding your skin from potential damage.

Hourly UV Index in Siavonga

At dawn, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM. As the sun climbs higher, the intensity increases, hitting 2 by 8:00 AM and reaching a moderate 3 by 9:00 AM. By 10:00 AM, the UV Index surges to 6, marking the onset of peak exposure times. The day reaches its zenith around 11:00 AM, with a high of 8, maintaining that level through 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM. As the afternoon rolls in, the intensity starts to wane, dropping to 6 by 2:00 PM and gradually decreasing to 4 by 3:00 PM. By 4:00 PM, it further dims to 2, and by the evening, the sun's rays have effectively mellowed, with 1 at 5:00 PM and finally fading to 0 after 6:00 PM. A perfect reminder that while the sun’s early rays beckon, the peak hours require cautious enjoyment!

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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:002low45 min
09:003moderate30 min
10:006high25 min
11:008very high15 min
12:008very high15 min
13:008very high15 min
14:006high25 min
15:004moderate30 min
16:002low45 min
17:001low45 min
18:000low45 min
19:000low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Siavonga

The UV Index experiences significant seasonal changes, with the highest values observed from January to March, where it reaches an extreme level, peaking at 17 in January. April begins a gradual decline, yet still maintains an extreme index of 12. As we transition into the summer months (May through August), the UV Index remains very high, with values around 8 to 10, and burn times increasing to 15 minutes. September marks a return to extreme levels, while October through December generally continue this high-risk trend, with exposures demanding vigilance. Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious during the months of January through April and September through November, taking measures such as wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and seeking shade to minimize the risk of UV exposure.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Siavonga, Zambia

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Siavonga. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec1716141210881011131415
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Siavonga, 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 Siavonga UV Index with Other Zambia Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Siavonga 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.
Siavonga's solar exposure compared to other cities in Zambia. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Siavonga1716141210881011121415
Lusaka UVI1717151310991112121516
Chingola UVI161715141110101112131416
Kitwe UVI16171614111091112131516
Kabwe UVI1717151311991113131516
Ndola UVI161716141110101112131516