Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Athi River, Kenya is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. High UV levels can lead to sunburns, premature aging, and increase the risk of skin cancer, making it essential for residents and visitors alike to stay informed. Athi River's Cfb climate brings warm temperatures year-round, with peak UV readings soaring to 12 during midday hours, posing significant exposure risks. By regularly checking the UV Index, you can take the necessary precautions to enjoy the sun safely, ensuring a healthier outdoor experience in this vibrant location.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index reveals a dynamic dance of sunlight intensity. Starting off gently at 1 during the early hours, the index climbs steadily, reaching a manageable 4 by 9 AM. The ascent peaks drastically at 12 between 12 PM and 1 PM, signaling the sun's strength at its zenith. A gradual decline begins post-lunch, with the index dropping to 7 by 3 PM, then continuing its descent to 2 by 5 PM. As daylight wanes, the UV Index returns to safe levels, resting at 1 by 6 PM and finally tapering off to 0 by 7 PM. This hourly progression highlights the importance of sun safety, particularly during midday when the UV rays are at their most potent. Remember, protection during high UV Index hours is crucial!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 10 | 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index remains notably high, consistently categorized as extreme, with optimal exposure times capped at just 10 minutes across all months. January through April presents the peak period, with UV Index values ranging from 15 to 16, marking it as a critical time for sun exposure. While May through August sees a slight dip in UV Index, values remain close to 12-14, continuing to pose significant risks for sunburn. September through December exhibits a return to higher UV readings, particularly in September with an index of 15. It is crucial for both visitors and residents to take precautionary measures during these months, such as wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during the peak sun hours to mitigate the risk of UV exposure.
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 |
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 |
Athi River | 15 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 14 |
Nakuru UVI | 16 | 17 | 17 | 17 | 14 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 |