Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Limulunga, Zambia, is crucial for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn. With its Aw climate characterized by warm temperatures and strong sun exposure, residents and visitors alike should be aware of the potential risks associated with varying UV levels throughout the day. As UV radiation reaches its peak between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, a notable index of 8, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen can dramatically reduce the likelihood of skin damage. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can effectively protect yourself while enjoying the beautiful outdoors in Limulunga.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a clear pattern of intensity, peaking in the early afternoon. Starting from a mild 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, the index escalates as the sun rises higher. By 10:00, it reaches 5, indicating a moderate level of UV exposure. The real surge occurs between 11:00 and 13:00, where the UV Index hits its maximum of 8, suggesting caution is necessary for outdoor activities. As the afternoon progresses, the intensity gradually diminishes, dropping to 4 at 15:00 before falling to 1 by 17:00 and retreating to 0 by 19:00. Stay protected during the peak hours, especially between 11:00 and 13:00, when the sun’s rays are most potent!
| 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV index levels exhibit significant seasonal variation, with the highest readings occurring from January to April, where the UV Index remains at extreme levels between 15 and 16, leading to a burn time of just 10 minutes. As spring transitions into summer, the UV index slightly decreases from May to July, dropping to very high levels of 8 to 10, allowing for a slightly extended burn time of 15 minutes. However, September to December sees a return to extreme exposure categories with UV indices of 12 to 15 and a consistent burn time of 10 minutes. The high-risk months for UV exposure are January through April, and November, making it crucial for both visitors and residents to take proactive measures such as using broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours to minimize skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Limulunga | 16 | 16 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 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 |