Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Mandera, Kenya, where the sun shines brightly in its BWh climate most of the year. As UV levels can peak significantly throughout the day, awareness of these levels is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. With midday UV Index values soaring to 12, regular monitoring can help you model your sun exposure and minimize risks associated with prolonged sunlight. Whether you're enjoying the outdoors or just commuting, equipping yourself with knowledge about the UV Index can make all the difference in safeguarding your well-being amid Mandera's typical intense UV exposure.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index reveals a fascinating journey of sunlight intensity. Starting at a mild 1 at 07:00, the index gradually climbs, reaching 2 by 08:00. The real action kicks in around 09:00 with a leap to 5, but it's from 10:00 onwards that the UV levels hit their peak. At 11:00 and 12:00, the index soars to a scorching 11 and 12, signaling the need for sun protection. The intensity begins to wane after 13:00, dropping to 9 at 14:00, and further dips to 6 by 15:00. As the afternoon melts into evening, a gentle decline continues, with the UV Index settling back to 1 by 17:00, and finally, it drops to 0 by 19:00, marking the end of the sun's powerful reach for the day. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!
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 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index experiences extreme levels throughout the year, with minimal fluctuations. January to May presents the highest readings, peaking at 16 in March. Notably, from February to April, the index remains above 15, categorizing these months as high-risk for UV exposure. June sees a slight decrease to 12, but the extreme exposure category persists until November, where it drops to 12 and then to 11 in December. It is important for both visitors and residents to take precautionary measures year-round, such as wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen, and seeking shade, especially during these high-risk months when burn time is as short as 10 minutes.
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 |
Mandera | 13 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 |
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 |
Nakuru UVI | 16 | 17 | 17 | 17 | 14 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 |