Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Akankpa, Nigeria, being aware of the UV Index is essential for safeguarding your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels can help you prevent sunburn, reduce the risk of skin cancer, and maintain healthy skin, especially in a climate characterized by high temperatures and intense sun exposure. With UV Index levels peaking at a staggering 11 during midday hours, residents and visitors alike must prioritize sun protection strategies to mitigate the risks associated with prolonged exposure. Stay informed and stay safe under the Nigerian sun!
At dawn, the UV Index starts at a gentle 1 by 7:00 AM, gradually rising as the sun climbs higher in the sky. By 9:00 AM, it reaches a moderate 4, urging early risers to stay vigilant. The intensity peaks at noon, hitting a scorching 11, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. This peak continues until 1:00 PM, where it remains at 11 before beginning its descent. The afternoon sees a noticeable drop, with the index falling to 6 by 3:00 PM and further decreasing to 3 by 4:00 PM. As the day winds down, the UV Index drops to a safe 1 by 5:00 PM and finally falls to 0 by 7:00 PM, signaling the end of the sun's powerful rays. Stay informed and protect your skin during those 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 | 7 | 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal variations, with highest levels typically occurring from April to September, where the index ranges from 12 to 14, classified as extreme. February to March also show notable high values at 11, indicating an increased risk of skin damage. In particular, the months of April, May, and June are the most critical periods, with consistent burn times of only 10 minutes before skin damage may occur. Residents and visitors should take proactive measures during these high-risk months by wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade whenever possible. Even during the winter months like January and November, when the UV Index is still very high at 10, caution should be exercised to prevent sunburn and skin damage. Staying informed and vigilant can help ensure safety and well-being under the sun.
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 |
| Akankpa | 10 | 11 | 11 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 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 |