Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Mvuma, Zimbabwe, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining optimal skin health and preventing sunburn. With the region's Cwb climate characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons, understanding UV levels can significantly impact daily outdoor activities. During peak hours, particularly between 11 AM and 1 PM, UV exposure can rise sharply to levels of 8, indicating a high risk for skin damage. Staying informed about the UV Index helps residents and visitors alike take proactive measures to protect themselves against harmful rays and enjoy the sunny climate safely.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases an interesting pattern of solar intensity and risk levels. From the early hours, the index starts low at 1 by 07:00, gradually climbing to a moderate 3 by 09:00. The sun reaches its peak intensity at 11:00, where the index hits 8, remaining steady until 13:00—a time best reserved for shade-seekers and sunscreen users. As the afternoon progresses, the intensity begins to wane, dipping back to 3 by 15:00, and then dropping to a negligible 0 by 18:00, marking a safe end to the sun's more harmful rays. Stay vigilant during those midday hours for optimal sun safety!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 8 | 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 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.
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 UVI | 17 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 15 |
Mvuma | 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 |