UV Index in Mutoko, Zimbabwe

Last updated: January 18, 2026

Understanding the UV Index in Mutoko, Zimbabwe, is essential for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With this region's Cwa climate, residents and visitors often encounter high UV exposure, particularly during midday hours. Being aware of the UV levels can help you take necessary precautions to prevent sunburns and long-term skin damage, especially when the index peaks at 9 around noon. As the sun shines brightly in Mutoko, knowledge of these UV risks empowers you to enjoy the outdoors while protecting your skin from harmful rays.

Hourly UV Index in Mutoko

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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:002low60+ minutes
08:005moderate30–60 min
09:009very high10–15 min
10:0013extreme<10 minutes
11:0016extreme<10 minutes
12:0017extreme<10 minutes
13:0016extreme<10 minutes
14:0012extreme<10 minutes
15:008very high10–15 min
16:004moderate30–60 min
17:001low60+ minutes
18:001low60+ minutes
19:000low60+ minutes

Monthly UV Index Trends in Mutoko

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 Mutoko, Zimbabwe

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Mutoko. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec1716141310891212141515
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Mutoko, 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 Mutoko UV Index with Other Zimbabwe Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Mutoko 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.
Mutoko's solar exposure compared to other cities in Zimbabwe. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Bulawayo UVI171614129881012131515
Mutare UVI1716141210881012131515
Gweru UVI1716141210881012131515
Chitungwiza UVI1716141310981012131515
Harare UVI1816141310981112121515
Mutoko1716141310891112131515