UV Index in Athi River, Kenya

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Athi River, Kenya, where the sun's rays can pose significant risks to skin health. With maximum UV levels reaching 12 during midday, awareness is essential for preventing sunburn and minimizing long-term skin damage. The Cfb climate of Athi River means that while temperatures are generally mild, the potential for intense UV exposure still exists throughout the year. By staying informed about daily UV levels, you can take appropriate precautions to protect yourself and your family from harmful UV radiation.

Hourly UV Index in Athi River

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a gentle 1 at 07:00 before gradually climbing to a moderate 2 by 08:00. The real intensity kicks in as the clock strikes 10:00, when the index reaches a noteworthy 7. By 11:00, it peaks at an extreme 10, and just after noon, it hits the highest point of the day at an impressive 12. This intense UV exposure continues until 13:00, where it remains steady at 12. As the afternoon progresses, the index starts to decline, dropping to 10 at 14:00, then tapering off to 7 by 15:00. The UV Index continues to decrease, reaching 4 at 16:00 and returning to a low of 1 by the evening, with the sun slipping below the horizon at 19:00, leaving a safe UV reading of 0.

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	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	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