Last updated: June 2, 2025
Awareness of the UV Index is crucial for residents of Sinazongwe, Zambia, where the tropical climate can lead to significant UV exposure. Understanding UV levels is essential not only for preventing painful sunburns but also for promoting long-term skin health. With UV Index readings peaking at 8 during midday, even brief sun exposure can pose risks. As Sinazongwe enjoys a predominantly dry climate in the BSh zone, it’s important to stay informed and take necessary precautions to shield your skin from the sun's harmful rays.
At dawn, the UV Index remains low, with a maximum reading of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00. However, as the sun ascends, the intensity of UV radiation begins to climb, peaking at 8 between 12:00 and 13:00—an indicator of heightened sun exposure. From this midpoint, the index starts to decline, dropping to 6 at 14:00 and then down to 3 by 15:00. As the afternoon wanes, UV levels plummet back to 1 by 16:00 and 0 by 18:00 and 19:00. This hourly progression underscores the importance of sun protection during the midday hours when the UV Index is at its most dangerous. Stay vigilant and enjoy the sun safely!
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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
14:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
15:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
16:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index experiences significant seasonal fluctuations, with the highest levels recorded from January to March, where it reaches extreme values (17-14), indicating a burn time of just 10 minutes. This pattern continues into April with an index of 12. The months of May through August see a slight decrease but remain in the very high category (10-8), allowing up to 15 minutes before risking sunburn. As September approaches, the index increases again to 11, and the extreme values return in October (12), November (14), and December (15), maintaining a 10-minute burn time. Visitors and residents should take precautions during the high-risk periods, particularly from January through April and again in November and December, by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and seeking shade to mitigate the risks associated with high UV exposure.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sinazongwe | 17 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 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 |