UV Index in Rusape, Zimbabwe

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Rusape, Zimbabwe, where the sun’s rays can be especially intense. As part of a region characterized by a Cwa climate, it’s vital to be aware of daily UV levels to effectively prevent sunburn and protect your skin health. With UV Index values peaking at 9 around noon, awareness becomes essential for enjoying outdoor activities safely. By knowing when the UV exposure risks are highest—typically between 10 AM and 2 PM—you can take proactive measures such as seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen, ensuring both your comfort and wellbeing under the African sun.

Hourly UV Index in Rusape

The UV Index starts off gently at 1 around 7:00 AM, gradually rising to 2 by 8:00 AM. As the day progresses, the intensity peaks at 12:00 PM with a stunning 9, signaling a high risk for overexposure. The afternoon sees a slight decline, tapering to 8 at 1:00 PM and 5 by 2:00 PM, before swiftly dropping to 3 and 1 from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. As evening approaches, the UV levels plunge to 0 by 6:00 PM, offering a reprieve as the sun sets. It's clear that midday is the time to take protective measures, ensuring you enjoy the sunshine safely!

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	9	very high	15 min
13:00	8	very high	15 min
14:00	5	moderate	30 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 Rusape

Throughout the year, UV index levels show extreme exposure from January to April, maintaining a high risk with an index ranging from 15 to 18 and a burn time as short as 10 minutes. As we transition into May and June, the index remains very high—with a decrease in burn time to 15 minutes—but still poses significant risks. The summer months of July and August see a slight shift, with the index leveling around 9 to 11, categorized again as extreme for August. Following this, September to November returns to high-risk conditions with indices of 13 to 15 and a constant burn time of 10 minutes. To ensure safety, visitors and residents should be especially cautious during these high-risk months, wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours to mitigate harmful effects from UV radiation.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Rusape, Zimbabwe

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Rusape 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.

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