Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the residents of Chitungwiza, Zimbabwe, where the sun's intensity can pose significant risks throughout the day. With UV levels peaking around midday—reaching as high as 10—being aware of these fluctuations is essential for effective sunburn prevention and maintaining long-term skin health. This vibrant community, characterized by a temperate climate, experiences distinct UV exposure risks, especially during the warmer months. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy outdoor activities safely, reducing the likelihood of harmful skin damage while embracing the sun's warmth.
The UV Index fluctuates throughout the day, starting off mildly at 07:00 with a value of 1. As the sun rises higher, the intensity increases, reaching 2 by 08:00 and escalating sharply to 5 at 09:00. The peak UV intensity occurs around 12:00, hitting a maximum of 10, indicating the need for sun protection. After this peak, the index gradually declines, dipping to 9 by 13:00 and lowering further to 6 by 14:00. As afternoon fades into evening, UV exposure diminishes significantly, dropping to 3 by 15:00 and then back to 1 by 16:00, before finally reaching 0 by 18:00 and remaining at zero into the night. Stay safe while enjoying the sunshine!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels exhibit significant seasonal fluctuations, with the highest values recorded from January to April, where an extreme exposure category prevails (UV Index 17 to 13) and a burn time of just 10 minutes is sufficient to sustain skin damage. February holds the peak UV index at 16, making it a critical month for sun safety. As the year progresses into May to August, UV levels drop slightly to very high (UV Index 10 to 8) with a burn time of 15 minutes. This trend continues into September and October, where UV levels rise back to an extreme category (UV Index 12 and 13). Notably, November sees a high UV Index of 15, before settling back to 15 in December. Visitors and residents are advised to remain vigilant, especially during the high-risk months of January to April, where protective measures such as sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses should be prioritized to minimize skin damage from high UV exposure.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bulawayo UVI | 17 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 15 |
| Mutare UVI | 17 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 15 |
| Gweru UVI | 17 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 15 |
| Chitungwiza | 17 | 16 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 15 |
| Harare UVI | 18 | 16 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 15 | 15 |