UV Index in Mandera, Kenya

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Mandera, Kenya, understanding the UV Index is crucial for maintaining your skin health and preventing sunburn. The region's BWh climate means residents and visitors alike are often exposed to high UV levels, especially during midday when the index can soar to an intense 13. Being aware of these UV levels empowers you to take protective measures, ensuring you enjoy the sun safely while minimizing the risk of damaging effects on your skin. With peak UV times typically around 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen is essential for everyone living in or traveling through Mandera.

Hourly UV Index in Mandera

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its gradual ascent, hitting a mild 1 by 7:00 AM. The intensity grows steadily, reaching 2 by 8:00 AM and then surging to 5 at 9:00 AM. By 10:00 AM, the index peaks at a robust 8, warning of increasing exposure risk. 11:00 AM sees the UV rays intensify to an impressive 11, leading to a maximum of 13 at 12:00 PM, making it critical to stay protected. The afternoon sun starts to mellow out, dropping to 12 by 1:00 PM, then gradually tapering off to 10 at 2:00 PM, 6 at 3:00 PM, and further declining to 3 at 4:00 PM. Finally, as evening descends, the index falls to 1 by 5:00 PM and remains at that level through 6:00 PM, until fading to 0 after sunset at 7:00 PM. Stay vigilant and shield yourself during those peak midday 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	8	very high	15 min
11:00	11	extreme	10 min
12:00	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	10	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Mandera

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Mandera, Kenya

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Mandera 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.

Mandera'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
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