UV Index in Chegutu, Zimbabwe

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Chegutu, Zimbabwe, is essential for protecting your skin and maintaining overall health. With the region's Cwa climate, residents often experience high levels of UV exposure, particularly during midday when the index peaks at 10. Being aware of these UV levels is crucial for preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage—especially between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, when the risk is at its highest. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can take the necessary precautions to enjoy the beautiful Zimbabwean sun while keeping your skin safe and healthy.

Hourly UV Index in Chegutu

The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dynamic range of sun exposure. Early morning hours start off modestly with a maximum of 1 at 07:00. As the sun climbs, the intensity rises, peaking at 10 around noon—a crucial reminder to seek shade or protect your skin during these peak hours. The UV levels remain high at 9 by 11:00 but begin to taper off in the afternoon, dropping to 3 by 15:00. As the day winds down, UV exposure diminishes significantly, reaching 0 by 19:00, highlighting the importance of midday sun safety while enjoying the outdoors.

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	7	high	25 min
11:00	9	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 Chegutu

The UV Index exhibits notable seasonal variations, peaking during the early months of the year. From January to April, the index remains between 13 and 17, classifying these months as extreme and resulting in a quick burn time of just 10 minutes. As we transition into May and June, the index drops slightly to 10 and 8, aligning with a very high exposure category and a burn time of 15 minutes. Notably, September returns to extreme levels at 12, while October and November maintain an extreme status with numbers around 13 to 15. Throughout this period, residents and visitors should take extra precautions, especially between January and April and again in September to November, by using adequate sun protection, including sunscreen, sunglasses, and protective clothing, to minimize the risk of UV-related health issues.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Chegutu, Zimbabwe

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Chegutu 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.

Chegutu'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
Chegutu	17	16	14	13	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