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UV Index in Ruiru, Kenya

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Ruiru, Kenya, is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With the sun's rays reaching their peak throughout the day, awareness of UV levels can help you prevent painful sunburns and long-term skin damage. Ruiru enjoys a temperate climate, yet it experiences high UV exposure particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM, when the index often peaks at 11—a level that indicates an extreme risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can make safer outdoor choices and protect your skin.

Hourly UV Index in Ruiru

The UV Index for the day presents a clear picture of sun intensity, starting off gentle in the early hours. At 7:00 AM, it begins at a mild 1, increasing to 2 by 8:00 AM. As the sun rises higher, the index climbs rapidly; by 10:00 AM, it reaches 7 and peaks at an intense 11 around 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM. After this zenith, the levels gradually decline, dropping to 9 by 2:00 PM, 6 at 3:00 PM, and settling back to a safe 1 by 5:00 PM. The UV exposure diminishes further, reaching a low of 0 by 7:00 PM. Stay protected during those peak hours!

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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:002low45 min
09:004moderate30 min
10:007high25 min
11:0010very high15 min
12:0011extreme10 min
13:0011extreme10 min
14:009very high15 min
15:006high25 min
16:003moderate30 min
17:001low45 min
18:001low45 min
19:000low45 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec151616161311111314131313
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.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Mombasa UVI141415141311111213131312
Ruiru151616161311111314141313
Kikuyu UVI151616161311111314141313
Nairobi UVI151616161311111314141313
Nakuru UVI161717171412131415151414