Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Beitbridge, Zimbabwe, is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With the region's BWh climate, characterized by hot temperatures and clear skies, the risk of harmful UV exposure increases significantly during peak hours. By monitoring the UV levels, particularly when they peak at 7 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, residents and visitors can take proactive steps to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. Awareness of the UV Index not only promotes better sun protection practices but also encourages a healthier outdoor lifestyle in this vibrant community.
At dawn, the UV Index starts off low, with a maximum of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00. As the sun rises higher, it reaches 3 by 09:00, before climbing to a peak of 7 at 12:00. This midday intensity signifies a need for sun protection, especially during the height of the day when UV exposure is most potent. The index begins to decline in the afternoon, dropping to 5 at 14:00 and settling back to 1 by 17:00. By 18:00 and into the evening, the UV Index sharply drops to 0, marking a safe time to enjoy outdoor activities without the risk of sunburn. Stay sun-safe!
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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
13:00 | 6 | 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 |
The UV Index shows significant seasonal fluctuations, with extreme levels persisting from January through April and again in September, October, and November, characterized by a burn time of just 10 minutes. The highest risk months are therefore January to April and September to November, when the Index reaches up to 16. Spring and late summer months, specifically May and August, present very high readings (UV Index of 8 and 9), extending burn times to 15 minutes. In contrast, June and July offer moderate relief with high levels (UV Index 6 and 7) and longer burn times of 25 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautionary measures during high UV periods by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen to minimize skin damage, especially during peak sunlight hours.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Beitbridge | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 15 | 14 |
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 |