Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Filabusi, Zimbabwe, where the warm BSh climate can lead to high levels of sunlight exposure. Being aware of the daily UV levels helps you protect your skin from sunburn and long-term health issues associated with excessive UV exposure. With peak UV Index values reaching up to 7 around midday, it’s essential to take precautions, as these levels indicate a moderate to high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By understanding when to seek shade and apply sunscreen, you can enjoy the beautiful weather of Filabusi while prioritizing your skin health.
As the sun rises, the UV Index remains low at 1 from 07:00 to 08:00, offering a gentle start to the day. However, as the hours progress, the intensity increases, reaching 3 by 09:00 and peaking at 7 between 11:00 and 13:00. This midday surge signifies the sun's powerful rays, urging everyone to take precautions for skin protection. As the afternoon wanes, the UV Index begins to decline, dropping to 5 at 14:00, and further decreasing to 3 by 15:00. The evening brings relief, with the index falling to 1 by 16:00 and 0 from 18:00 onward. Embrace the early hours for outdoor activities, but stay vigilant during lunchtime when the sun is at its strongest!
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Filabusi | 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 |