UV Index in Shamva, Zimbabwe

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Shamva, Zimbabwe, being aware of the UV Index is vital for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels can help residents and visitors alike prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage, enabling them to enjoy the beautiful outdoors safely. With a Cwa climate, Shamva experiences significant sunlight, especially during midday when UV levels peak at 10, posing higher risks for harmful exposure. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can take proactive steps to safeguard your skin and enjoy all that Shamva has to offer without the worry of sun-related hazards.

Hourly UV Index in Shamva

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 Shamva

The UV Index experiences significant seasonal variations, with extreme levels dominating from January through April and again in August, October, and November. The months of January to April show a concerning consistency, with an index peaking at 17 in January. Following these extreme months, the UV Index decreases slightly in May and June, categorized as very high, before rising again in August. Notably, July maintains a very high level of UV exposure. Residents and visitors should be especially cautious during the high-risk months of January through April and August through November, where burn times are remarkably short, ranging from 10 to 15 minutes. It is highly advisable to utilize appropriate sun protection methods, including sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak UV radiation hours.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Shamva, Zimbabwe

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Shamva 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.

Shamva'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
Shamva	17	16	14	13	10	8	9	11	12	13	15	15