UV Index in Mombasa, Kenya

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Mombasa, Kenya, is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With its tropical climate, Mombasa experiences heightened UV exposure, especially during peak hours when the index can soar to dangerous levels, such as 11 around noon. Awareness of these UV levels helps you take proactive steps against sunburn and long-term skin damage. By staying informed, you can enjoy the beautiful beaches of Mombasa while ensuring you protect yourself from the harmful effects of the sun.

Hourly UV Index in Mombasa

The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dynamic pattern, peaking sharply during midday hours. At 07:00, the index starts low at 1, indicating minimal risk. As the sun rises, it climbs to 2 at 08:00 and rapidly escalates to 4 by 09:00. By 10:00, the intensity reaches 7, but the real intensity hits at 12:00 with a maximum of 11, signifying a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Though it dips slightly to 10 at 13:00, the index begins to retreat, dropping to 8 at 14:00, followed by a more gradual decrease to 5 at 15:00. As the sun sets, the index falls to 3 by 16:00, and then drops to 1 by 17:00, settling at a low 0 by 19:00. This data serves as a vital reminder for sun safety, especially during peak 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	4	moderate	30 min
10:00	7	high	25 min
11:00	9	very high	15 min
12:00	11	extreme	10 min
13:00	10	very high	15 min
14:00	8	very high	15 min
15:00	5	moderate	30 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 Mombasa

The UV Index remains exceptionally high throughout the year, with values consistently ranging from 12 to 15. The highest-risk months for UV exposure are March (UV Index 15) and January through April (UV Index 14), all categorized as extreme, indicating a burn time of just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should exercise caution during these months by limiting sun exposure, wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade whenever possible. Even in the summer months, from June to August, UV levels remain dangerous (between UV Index 11 and 12). Therefore, maintaining vigilance is essential year-round to safeguard against harmful UV radiation.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Mombasa, Kenya

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Mombasa 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.

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