UV Index in Machakos, Kenya

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Machakos, Kenya, is crucial for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn. The UV Index serves as a daily reminder of the sun's intensity, helping residents and visitors alike to take necessary precautions during the day. With Machakos' Cwb climate characterized by warm temperatures and high UV exposure risks, particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM, being aware of the UV levels can make all the difference in avoiding harmful effects of overexposure. Embrace the sunshine wisely and protect yourself by staying informed!

Hourly UV Index in Machakos

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a mild 1 at 07:00. The intensity ramps up quickly, hitting 2 by 08:00 and surging to a moderate 5 by 09:00. However, as midday approaches, watch out! The index skyrockets to a peak of 14 between 12:00 and 13:00, signaling a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. After this zenith, the UV Index gradually descends, dropping to 11 at 14:00, and then easing to 4 by 16:00. Finally, the index dwindles to 1 by 17:00 and fades to 0 by 19:00, marking a day where sun safety is crucial during those brightest hours.

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	9	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 Machakos

The UV Index experiences consistently high levels throughout the year, with values peaking from January to April, where the index ranges between 15 and 17, indicating extreme exposure risk and a burn time of just 10 minutes. These months are particularly critical for both visitors and residents, who should take strong precautions against sun exposure, including wearing protective clothing and applying sunscreen frequently. While the index shows a slight decrease during the summer months of June to August, it still remains in the extreme category, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance. September to December maintain similar levels, with UV Index values between 13 and 14, thus reminding everyone that sun safety should be a priority year-round. Staying educated about seasonal UV variations and focusing on preventive measures is crucial for outdoor activities in this region.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Machakos, Kenya

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Machakos 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.

Machakos'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
Machakos	15	16	17	16	14	12	12	13	14	14	13	14
Nakuru UVI	16	17	17	17	14	12	13	14	15	15	14	14