Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents of Kukawa, Nigeria, where the sun can be both a source of warmth and a potential health risk. With the region's hot semi-arid climate, knowing the UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. During peak hours, particularly between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, the UV Index soars to an intense level of 13, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By staying informed on daily UV fluctuations, locals can take proactive measures to safeguard their skin against the sun's harmful rays.
The UV Index presents a dynamic story throughout the day, beginning with a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, ideal for a morning stroll. As the sun rises, the intensity increases, hitting 3 by 8:00 AM and reaching 5 at 9:00 AM—a sign that sunscreen should start making an appearance. The peak comes between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, soaring to a striking 11 and then a maximum of 13 at noon, signaling a time when direct sun exposure can be particularly harmful. A gradual decline follows, with the index dropping to 9 by 2:00 PM, and easing back to 1 as evening approaches, reminding us to seek shade during the hottest hours. As the day winds down, the index concludes at 0 by 7:00 PM, inviting a leisurely night's rest.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | 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 |
The UV Index experiences significant fluctuations throughout the year, peaking from March to September with values ranging from 11 to 13, categorized as extreme. During these months, the recommended skin burn time drastically decreases to just 10 minutes, signaling heightened risk for sunburn and UV-related health issues. January, November, and December show a slight decrease in UV levels, classified under a very high exposure category, allowing for a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. Given these trends, it is crucial for visitors and residents to prioritize sun protection strategies—such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade—especially during the high-risk months of February through October. Regular UV monitoring and responsible sun exposure practices are essential for maintaining skin health year-round.
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 |
| 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 |
| Kukawa | 10 | 11 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 10 | 9 |
| Kaduna UVI | 10 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 10 | 10 |