Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Maua, Kenya, where the sun's rays can be intense, especially during midday. With UV levels often peaking at 12 around noon, awareness of these figures can significantly aid in preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. Maua's tropical climate means reduced cloud cover and increased exposure to harmful UV radiation, making it essential to monitor these levels regularly. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can take proactive measures to enjoy the sun safely while minimizing risks to your skin.
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.
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 |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels remain extraordinarily high, with several months classified under the extreme exposure category. From January to April, the UV Index peaks at 14-16, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, with a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. May sees a slight decrease, but still maintains a UV Index of 14, followed by June and July at 12, which are also considered extreme. The UV Index remains elevated through August (13) and slightly decreases in September to November (13-14) before leveling out at 13 in December. Given the high risk associated with these UV levels, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to take protective measures, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during peak sunlight hours.
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 |
Maua | 14 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 |
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 |