Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Sinazongwe, Zambia, where the climate features a warm and sunny BSh classification. Being aware of UV levels helps prevent sunburn and promotes overall skin health, making it essential to monitor daily fluctuations. With readings reaching a high of 8 around noon, the risk of harmful exposure increases significantly, particularly during peak sun hours. By staying informed about these UV levels, individuals can better protect themselves and enjoy all that Sinazongwe has to offer, safely basking in the sun's rays while minimizing health risks.
At dawn, the UV Index remains low, peaking at 1 by 08:00. As the sun rises higher, a notable increase occurs, reaching 3 at 09:00 and escalating dramatically to a maximum of 8 from 12:00 to 13:00. This midday surge indicates a higher risk for sun exposure, making it essential to take precautions such as wearing sunscreen and protective clothing. The intensity then gradually declines, dropping to 4 by 15:00, and continuing its descent to 0 by 19:00, marking the end of the sun’s peak influence for the day. Stay mindful of these hourly fluctuations to 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 | 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 |
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 |