UV Index in Mutare, Zimbabwe

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Mutare, Zimbabwe is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With the city's Cwa climate characterized by warm summers, it’s essential to be aware of fluctuating UV levels throughout the day. High UV exposure can lead to sunburns and long-term skin damage, making it vital to monitor these levels and take protective measures, especially when they're at their peak between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, where values can soar as high as 8. Stay informed and enjoy the sunshine safely!

Hourly UV Index in Mutare

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its climb, starting at a mild 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it nudges up to 2, but the real surge begins as we approach midday. At 09:00, it reaches 4, and by 10:00, it hits 6—a clear sign to apply that sunscreen! The peak UV intensity occurs from 11:00 to 12:00, where it soars to an impressive 8, making it crucial to seek shade and wear protective clothing. As the afternoon rolls in, the index gradually decreases—7 at 13:00, 5 at 14:00, before plunging to 2 by 15:00. Finally, from 16:00 to 19:00, the UV Index dwindles down to 1 and finally 0, marking the end of a day where sun safety was paramount during those peak hours. Stay vigilant under the sun!

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	4	moderate	30 min
10:00	6	high	25 min
11:00	8	very high	15 min
12:00	8	very high	15 min
13:00	7	high	25 min
14:00	5	moderate	30 min
15:00	2	low	45 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 Mutare

The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, peaking during the first few months of the year with extremely high levels, reaching a maximum of 17 in January. The months of January through April consistently present extreme exposure risks, necessitating vigilant sun protection as the burn time is only 10 minutes. As the year progresses, the UV Index remains notably high from May to August, with levels classified as very high, where the burn time extends to 15 minutes. In September through November, the index again shifts to extreme levels, emphasizing the need for caution with burn times reverting back to 10 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly encouraged to take preventive measures, such as wearing sunscreen and protective clothing, particularly during the high-risk months of October, November, and the early months of the year, when UV exposure can lead to rapid sunburn.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Mutare, Zimbabwe

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Mutare. 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 Mutare, 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 Mutare UV Index with Other Zimbabwe Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Mutare 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.

Mutare'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	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 UVI	18	16	14	13	10	9	8	11	12	12	15	15