Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Gweru, Zimbabwe is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. High UV levels can lead to sunburn, premature aging, and increased risk of skin cancer, making awareness essential for all residents and visitors. Gweru, with its Cwa climate, experiences significant solar exposure throughout the year, especially during peak hours when the UV Index can reach dangerous levels of 9. By staying informed about daily UV predictions, you can enjoy outdoor activities safely while minimizing the risk of sun-related health issues.
The UV Index throughout the day demonstrates a distinct peak during the midday hours, reaching its maximum of 9 at 11:00 AM and again at 12:00 PM. As the sun rises, the UV Index begins at a mere 1 at 7:00 AM, gradually climbing to 4 by 9:00 AM. However, once the clock strikes 10:00 AM, the intensity escalates sharply to 7 before hitting its zenith. Following this, there is a slight tapering off in the afternoon hours, with values nearing 6 at 2:00 PM and gradually decreasing to 3 by 3:00 PM. As daylight wanes, the UV Index plummets, dropping to 1 by 4:00 PM and finally settling at 0 by 6:00 PM, signaling an end to the sun's powerful rays for the day. This data emphasizes the importance of sun protection, especially during those peak hours between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM.
| 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | 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 |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, peaking during the first few months of the year with extremely high levels, reaching a maximum of 17 in January. The months of January through April consistently present extreme exposure risks, necessitating vigilant sun protection as the burn time is only 10 minutes. As the year progresses, the UV Index remains notably high from May to August, with levels classified as very high, where the burn time extends to 15 minutes. In September through November, the index again shifts to extreme levels, emphasizing the need for caution with burn times reverting back to 10 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly encouraged to take preventive measures, such as wearing sunscreen and protective clothing, particularly during the high-risk months of October, November, and the early months of the year, when UV exposure can lead to rapid sunburn.
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 | 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 |