Last updated: July 2, 2025
In the vibrant town of Zvishavane, Zimbabwe, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With UV levels peaking during the midday hours—reaching as high as 8—understanding and monitoring these levels can help prevent painful sunburn and long-term skin damage. Given Zvishavane's semi-arid climate, residents are exposed to significant UV risks, particularly during the sunniest hours. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can take necessary precautions to enjoy the beautiful Zimbabwean sun safely.
The UV Index data paints a vivid picture of sun exposure throughout the day. In the early hours, from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM, the UV Index remains low, peaking at only 1. However, as the sun climbs higher, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, it surges to 8 at noon, marking the peak of solar intensity. The afternoon sees a slight decline, with the index dropping to 5 at 2:00 PM and further to 3 by 3:00 PM. As evening approaches, the UV levels plummet back to a safe 1 by 4:00 PM, and the sun's diminishing rays result in a 0 by 6:00 PM, signaling a welcome reprieve from UV exposure. Essentially, the peak intensity occurs during midday hours, highlighting the importance of seeking shade and wearing protection during these critical hours.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 7 | high | 25 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 |
Throughout the year, UV exposure dramatically fluctuates, with the highest risk months being January through April, where the UV Index reaches extreme levels of 17 to 12, requiring minimal sun exposure to avoid burns in just 10 minutes. Following this period, May to August sees a slight decrease, with UV Index values ranging from 9 to 10, categorized as very high, allowing for longer exposure times of 15 to 25 minutes. As temperatures drop in September through December, UV Index values remain high, fluctuating between 12 and 15, again necessitating caution with exposure limited to 10 to 15 minutes. To ensure safety, both visitors and residents are advised to take protective measures, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during the highest risk periods. Regularly checking the local UV index and adjusting outdoor activities accordingly is essential to minimize skin damage and promote overall health.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zvishavane | 17 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 15 |
| 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 |