Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Okpuala-Ngwa, Nigeria, where the sun's intensity can pose significant risks to skin health. With peak UV levels soaring as high as 11 from late morning to early afternoon, the potential for sunburns and long-term skin damage increases dramatically. Given the region's tropical climate, awareness of UV exposure is essential for enjoying outdoor activities safely. By monitoring the UV Index, you can take proactive steps to protect yourself and your family from harmful rays, ensuring a healthier, more enjoyable lifestyle under the sun.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent. At 07:00, it starts low at 1, indicating a safe level for outdoor activities. By 08:00, it ticks up to 2, still manageable for most. By 09:00, the intensity increases to 4, prompting sun protection for fair-skinned individuals. As the clock strikes 10:00, the UV Index elevates to 6, which signals caution, especially for prolonged exposure. The peak arrives around 12:00 and 13:00, where it reaches a soaring 11, marking an extreme risk. From 14:00, the numbers slowly begin to decline, dropping to 9 by 15:00, and further to 6 at 16:00. As the day winds down, 17:00 sees it at 2, and finally, it settles at 0 by 19:00, allowing everyone to enjoy the evening without UV worries. Always remember to stay protected during peak 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | 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 |
During the year, the UV Index shows significant seasonal changes, with the highest risk months being from February to September, where levels consistently reach extreme categories. Particularly, April records the peak at UV Index 14, making sun protection vital. With standard burn times of just 10 minutes during these months, it is crucial for visitors and residents to take precautions such as wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen with high SPF, and seeking shade during peak sun hours. Conversely, the months of January, November, and December exhibit lower UV levels, categorized as very high, allowing for slightly longer exposure times. However, even during these months, vigilance against sun damage remains essential.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lagos UVI | 10 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 8 |
| Port Harcourt UVI | 10 | 11 | 11 | 14 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 9 |
| Okpuala-Ngwa | 10 | 11 | 11 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 9 |
| Ibadan UVI | 10 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 9 |
| Kano UVI | 10 | 12 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 10 |
| Kaduna UVI | 10 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 10 | 10 |