UV Index in Harare, Zimbabwe

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Harare, Zimbabwe, where the sun’s harmful rays can significantly impact your skin health. Awareness of UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and mitigating long-term skin damage, making it essential for outdoor enthusiasts and everyday life alike. With Harare's Cwb climate, characterized by a subtropical highland climate, the region experiences varying levels of UV exposure throughout the day. Notably, peak UV Index readings soar to 10 around noon, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, underscoring the importance of sun safety measures during these hours.

Hourly UV Index in Harare

The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dramatic ascent and descent in sun intensity. Starting low at 1 by 7:00 AM, it climbs steadily, hitting 2 by 8:00 AM. By 09:00 AM, the index ramps up to 5, and peaks at an intense 10 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM—the critical hours to seek shade or slather on sunscreen. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to decline, falling to 9 at 1:00 PM, and gradually tapering off to 6 at 2:00 PM, before dropping to 3 by 3:00 PM. The evening sees a dramatic plunge, settling back to 1 by 4:00 PM and finally reaching 0 after 6:00 PM. Visitors and locals alike should take note of the peak hours to ensure safe sun exposure!

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.
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	10	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Harare

Throughout the year, UV Index levels vary significantly, with the highest risk months being from January to April when the UV Index reaches an extreme level of 18 to 13 and a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. Following this, the UV Index remains notably high in November and December, again hitting extreme levels, while May to July experiences a slight decrease, with the index categorized as very high (10 to 8) and burn times extending to 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should exercise caution during these high-risk months by wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade when outdoors. As UV levels remain dangerous for much of the year, it's crucial to stay informed and prioritize skin safety.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Harare, Zimbabwe

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Harare. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Harare, 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 Harare UV Index with Other Zimbabwe Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Harare compares to other major locations across Zimbabwe. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Harare's solar exposure compared to other cities in Zimbabwe. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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 UVI	17	16	14	13	10	9	8	10	12	13	15	15
Harare	18	16	14	13	10	9	8	11	12	12	15	15