Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Mount Darwin, Zimbabwe, where the sun's rays can be particularly intense. With a climate classified as Cwa, the region experiences distinct seasonal changes, but UV radiation can still pose serious risks throughout the year. By keeping an eye on UV levels, you can effectively prevent sunburn and protect your skin health—especially when the index peaks at 9 during midday hours. Higher UV indexes mean a greater likelihood of skin damage, underscoring the importance of sun safety measures in this vibrant locale. Stay informed and enjoy the beautiful outdoors while safeguarding your well-being!
The UV Index reveals a dynamic shift throughout the day, beginning with a mild level of 1 at 07:00. As the sun rises higher, it peaks dramatically at 12:00 with a robust 9, indicating high exposure risk for unprotected skin. This intensity continues until 13:00, where it dips to 7, before gradually declining throughout the afternoon. By 15:00, the index lowers to 3, providing a more moderate environment for outdoor activities. As the evening sets in, the UV Index drops quickly, finishing the day at 0 by 19:00. It’s a clear reminder of the sun’s powerful influence—stay protected during the peak hours!
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 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 |
The UV Index displays significant seasonal variations, with the highest levels occurring from January to April, where the index consistently remains at 17 to 15, categorizing this period as extreme with a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. As we progress into late spring and summer, the index drops slightly to a very high category of 10 to 9 in May through July with a burn time extending to 15 minutes. However, August sees a return to extreme levels at 11. The fall months of September through November once again experience elevated UV indices, ranging from 12 to 15, with associated burn times of 10 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during the high-risk months of January through April and August through November, including the use of sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to mitigate the risks of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
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 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 |
| Mount Darwin | 17 | 17 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 15 | 15 |