Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the residents of Mariakani, Kenya, where the sun's intensity can lead to serious skin health concerns. With UV levels peaking at an alarming 11 during midday, the risk of sunburn significantly increases, making it essential to protect your skin from harmful rays. In this tropical climate, where sunny days are the norm, staying informed about UV exposure not only helps prevent immediate skin damage but also reduces the long-term risk of skin-related issues. By knowing the UV Index for each hour, you can make informed decisions about outdoor activities, ensuring safety for you and your loved ones.
The UV Index data reveals a dramatic progression of sun exposure throughout the day. Starting at a low of 1 at 07:00, the index begins to climb, hitting 2 by 08:00 and escalating sharply to 4 by 09:00. By 10:00, it soars to 7, reaching a peak of 11 at noon, the point at which sun protection becomes essential. After noon, the UV Index starts to decline gradually, dropping to 10 at 13:00, then 9 at 14:00, and continuing down to 6 by 15:00. As the evening approaches, the index falls further, winding down to 3 at 16:00 and returning to a safe 1 by 17:00 before settling to 0 by 19:00. This pattern highlights the importance of mindful sun exposure during peak hours, especially between 10:00 and 14:00.
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 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index consistently remains high, indicating extreme exposure levels, particularly from January to April, where it peaks at 15. Monthly averages show that even during the summer months of June and July, the UV Index doesn't drop below 11, emphasizing the need for caution year-round. Visitors and residents should prioritize sun protection, particularly during the high-risk months of January through April, when the burn time is as short as 10 minutes. Regular use of sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade are essential strategies to mitigate the risks associated with prolonged sun exposure in this region.
UV Risk Categories
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 |
Mariakani | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 13 |
Kikuyu UVI | 15 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 |
Ruiru 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 |