UV Index in Centenary, Zimbabwe

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Centenary, Zimbabwe, as it plays a vital role in safeguarding your skin health and preventing painful sunburn. With the region's Cwa climate, characterized by significant solar exposure, being aware of UV levels can help you make informed decisions about outdoor activities, particularly during peak hours when the index soars to 10 between 11:00 and 12:00. By monitoring UV conditions, you can enjoy the beautiful sunshine while taking necessary precautions to protect yourself and your loved ones from harmful rays.

Hourly UV Index in Centenary

Throughout the day, the UV Index exhibits a distinct peak just before noon. Starting off at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM, it rises steadily, reaching 2 by 8:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it jumps to 5, and then it surges to an impressive 10 at both 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, indicating a high level of sun exposure risk. As the afternoon unfolds, the readings dip to 9 at 1:00 PM and subsequently decline further to 6 at 2:00 PM. By 3:00 PM, it drops to 3, and the day winds down with values of 1 at 4:00 and 5:00 PM, before fading to 0 by 6:00 PM and beyond. For optimal sun safety, keep to the shade as the sun peaks!

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	8	very high	15 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 Centenary

Throughout the year, UV Index levels fluctuate significantly, with high-risk months primarily occurring from January to April and during August to November. During this period, UV Index readings reach extreme levels of 17 to 15, necessitating a burn time of only 10 minutes for unprotected skin. Notably, even in May to July, while the UV Index slightly decreases to 10 and 9, the exposure levels remain categorized as very high, with burn times extending to 15 minutes. As a result, visitors and residents must exercise caution during these months by seeking shade, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF, and wearing protective clothing and sunglasses when outdoors, to mitigate the risks associated with sun exposure.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Centenary, Zimbabwe

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Centenary 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.

Centenary'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
Centenary	17	17	15	13	10	9	9	11	12	12	15	16