Last updated: July 2, 2025
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.
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!
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 | 8 | very high | 15 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 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.
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 |
Mutoko | 17 | 16 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 15 |