UV Index in Ruiru, Kenya

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Ruiru, Kenya is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With the intense sunlight typical of a Cfb climate, awareness of UV levels can help prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. The UV Index varies throughout the day, peaking at 11 around noon, which signifies a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By staying informed about these levels, residents can enjoy outdoor activities while taking necessary precautions against UV radiation, ensuring their skin remains healthy and protected.

Hourly UV Index in Ruiru

The UV Index reveals an exciting yet cautionary tale of sun exposure throughout the day. Early risers will find gentle UV levels at 1 from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM, perfect for a leisurely breakfast outdoors. As the sun climbs higher, the index surges past 3 at 9:00 AM and peaks dramatically at 11 by 12:00 PM, signaling a prime time for sun protection. The intensity remains elevated with another 11 at 1:00 PM, making midday a critical window for sunscreen and shade. The UV levels then gracefully descend, slipping to 9 at 2:00 PM and tapering down through the afternoon, reaching back to 1 by 6:00 PM, before finally winding down to 0 after sunset at 7:00 PM. It’s a vivid reminder to balance enjoyment in the sun with safety!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
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	6	high	25 min
11:00	9	very high	15 min
12:00	11	extreme	10 min
13:00	11	extreme	10 min
14:00	9	very high	15 min
15:00	7	high	25 min
16:00	4	moderate	30 min
17:00	2	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Ruiru

The UV Index experiences extreme levels throughout the year, with consistently high readings from January to April (ranging from 15 to 16) and only slightly lower values during May to July (11 to 13). The high-risk months extend from January to April, where the UV Index remains at its peak, and even later months like August to October still show considerable risk. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during these months by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours. With a uniform burn time of just 10 minutes across all months, it is crucial to remain vigilant to prevent skin damage throughout the year.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Ruiru, Kenya

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Ruiru. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Ruiru, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Ruiru UV Index with Other Kenya Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Ruiru compares to other major locations across Kenya. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Ruiru's solar exposure compared to other cities in Kenya. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Mombasa UVI	14	14	15	14	13	11	11	12	13	13	13	12
Ruiru	15	16	16	16	13	11	11	13	14	14	13	13
Kikuyu UVI	15	16	16	16	13	11	11	13	14	14	13	13
Nairobi UVI	15	16	16	16	13	11	11	13	14	14	13	13
Nakuru UVI	16	17	17	17	14	12	13	14	15	15	14	14