UV Index in Athi River, Kenya

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Athi River, Kenya is essential for safeguarding your skin health against harmful ultraviolet rays. With the region’s Cfb climate, which brings warm temperatures and clear skies, the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage can significantly increase, especially during peak hours. It’s vital to be aware of varying UV levels throughout the day—ranging from a manageable 1 in the early morning to a severe 14 around noon. By monitoring the UV Index, you can take proactive steps to protect yourself and enjoy the sunny, vibrant outdoors safely.

Hourly UV Index in Athi River

During the early hours, the UV Index begins at a modest 1 at 7:00 AM, gradually climbing as the sun rises. By 10:00 AM, it reaches a significant 8, signaling the advent of peak sun exposure. The intensity peaks at 12:00 PM with a scorching 14, sustaining high levels until 1:00 PM. As the afternoon progresses, the index dips to 11 at 2:00 PM, before declining down to 7 by 3:00 PM. As the day winds down, the UV Index plummets to 1 by 5:00 PM and finally drops to 0 after 7:00 PM, marking the end of the UV activity. It’s crucial to stay protected during those high UV hours, especially between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM!

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	2	low	45 min
09:00	5	moderate	30 min
10:00	8	very high	15 min
11:00	12	extreme	10 min
12:00	14	extreme	10 min
13:00	14	extreme	10 min
14:00	11	extreme	10 min
15:00	7	high	25 min
16:00	4	moderate	30 min
17:00	1	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Athi River

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Athi River, Kenya

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Athi River. 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 Athi River, 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 Athi River UV Index with Other Kenya Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Athi River 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.

Athi River'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
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