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UV Index in Kisumu, Kenya

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Kisumu, Kenya, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn. As a tropical city located near the equator, Kisumu experiences high UV exposure levels, especially during midday when values can soar to 11—significantly increasing the risk of harmful effects from sun exposure. Understanding UV levels not only helps you plan outdoor activities safely but also enables you to take necessary precautions to protect yourself and your loved ones from potential skin damage. Stay informed and enjoy the vibrant Kisumu sun while keeping your skin healthy!

Hourly UV Index in Kisumu

As the sun rises, the UV Index remains low at 1 at both 07:00 and 08:00, making it a perfect time for early risers to enjoy the outdoors with minimal risk. However, by 09:00, the index jumps to 4, signaling an increase in UV intensity. The peak occurs between 11:00 and 13:00, reaching an impressive 11, which indicates a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the afternoon unfolds, the readings begin to taper off, with the index dropping to 10 by 14:00 and then decreasing further to 7 at 15:00. As the day winds down, the UV Index continues to decline, falling to 4 at 16:00 and settling at 2 by 17:00. The sun finally relinquishes its power, with the index dipping to 1 by 18:00 and returning to 0 after 19:00, marking a safe end to a sun-drenched day. 🌞

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
08:001low45 min
09:004moderate30 min
10:007high25 min
11:0010very high15 min
12:0011extreme10 min
13:0011extreme10 min
14:0010very high15 min
15:007high25 min
16:004moderate30 min
17:002low45 min
18:001low45 min
19:000low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Kisumu

Throughout the year, the UV Index remains extremely high, with values consistently ranging from 11 to 16. January to April marks the highest risk months, where the UV Index reaches up to 16, indicating a peak burn time of just 10 minutes. Even during the warmer months like July and August, the index remains concerning at 12, necessitating caution. As the UV Index decreases slightly in October, November, and December to 13, the burn time remains critically low. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to take protective measures against UV exposure year-round, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and hats, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours. Staying educated about UV risk is essential to ensure safety in outdoor activities.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Kisumu, Kenya

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Kisumu. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec151616151311121214131313
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Kisumu, 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 Kisumu UV Index with Other Kenya Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Kisumu 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.
Kisumu's solar exposure compared to other cities in Kenya. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Mombasa UVI141415141311111213131312
Kisumu151516151311121214131313
Kikuyu UVI151616161311111314141313
Ruiru UVI151616161311111314141313
Nairobi UVI151616161311111314141313
Nakuru UVI161717171412131415151414