UV Index in Chivhu, Zimbabwe

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Chivhu, Zimbabwe is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Awareness of the daily UV levels can help prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of long-term skin damage. With its climate characterized as Cwb, Chivhu experiences significant UV exposure during peak hours—particularly between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM—when the index can reach as high as 8. By staying informed about the UV Index, residents and visitors can take appropriate precautions, ensuring sunny days are safe and enjoyable.

Hourly UV Index in Chivhu

At 07:00, the UV Index starts at a modest 1, indicating minimal exposure risk. As the sun rises, it climbs steadily, reaching a notable 4 by 09:00. The peak intensity occurs between 11:00 and 13:00, where it holds strong at 8, signifying a heightened risk for sunburn. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually declines to 6 by 14:00, before swiftly dropping to 3 by 15:00. By the evening, the UV Index decreases further to 1 at 16:00 and falls to 0 by 19:00, showcasing a day where sun protection was crucial during the midday hours. Remember to stay safe and protect your skin when UV levels are at their highest!

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	8	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 Chivhu

Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variation, with extreme levels predominantly occurring from January through April and again in November and December, where the UV Index consistently reaches values between 15 and 17. The high-risk months for UV exposure are therefore January to April, as well as November. Even during the summer months of May through August, UV levels remain very high, with indices around 8 to 10, warranting caution. Residents and visitors are advised to take protective measures, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during peak sun hours. With specific burn times as short as 10 minutes in extreme conditions, taking these precautions is essential to safeguard against the harmful effects of solar radiation.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Chivhu, Zimbabwe

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Chivhu 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.

Chivhu'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
Chivhu	17	16	14	13	10	8	8	10	12	13	15	16