Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Kapenguria, Kenya, a region characterized by its diverse climate and high sun exposure. The UV Index serves as a vital tool in assessing the strength of harmful ultraviolet radiation, enabling individuals to take proactive measures against sunburn and skin damage. In Kapenguria, with its elevated UV levels peaking at 12 around midday, awareness of these risks is essential to protect skin health and ensure safe outdoor activities. As the sun shines brightly, especially from late morning to early afternoon, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen can make all the difference in maintaining well-being in this vibrant locale.
The UV Index data for the day reveals a dramatic rise in sun exposure as the hours progress. Starting at a gentle 1 at 07:00, it swiftly climbs to 2 by 08:00. By 09:00, the index reaches a moderate 4, but it’s from 10:00 onwards that the sun’s strength truly shines, peaking at an intense 12 during the noon hours of 12:00 and 13:00. This memorable midday height signifies the critical time for protection against harmful UV rays. The afternoon sees a slight drop, with values decreasing to 11 at 14:00 and then tapering down to 7 at 15:00. As the sun begins its descent, the UVI returns to safer levels, falling to 4 by 16:00, and dwindling to 1 at 18:00 before settling at 0 by 19:00. As such, it’s crucial to stay vigilant and protect your skin during peak UV hours!
| 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 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index remains consistently high throughout the year, with extreme exposure levels noted from January to May, peaking at 17 in both February and March. April and May see only slightly lower values, yet still indicate significant risk. High-risk months for sun exposure are therefore January to May, where a it is crucial to limit unprotected sun exposure to just 10 minutes to prevent skin damage. Though the index slightly decreases from June to November, careful monitoring is still advised as the UV Index remains at a minimum of 12 during this period. Visitors and residents are strongly recommended to wear protective clothing, use sunscreen generously, and seek shade when the sun is strongest to ensure their safety year-round.
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 |
| 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 |
| Kapenguria | 15 | 17 | 17 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 |
| Nakuru UVI | 16 | 17 | 17 | 17 | 14 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 |