Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Gwagwalada, Nigeria, as it helps safeguard against the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation. With UV levels peaking at 11 between noon and 1 PM, awareness of these fluctuations can be pivotal for preventing sunburn and promoting skin health. Gwagwalada's Aw climate typically features high UV exposure risks, especially during the dry season, making it essential to stay informed and take precautions during peak hours. By monitoring the UV Index, you can enjoy the sun safely while minimizing the long-term risks to your skin.
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 |
The UV Index in the region shows significant seasonal variations, particularly peaking during the summer months. From January to May, the UV Index remains consistently high at 11-12, indicating an extreme exposure category with a burn time of just 10 minutes. The intensity heightens from June to September, reaching a peak of 13, reinforcing the extreme risk of UV exposure all summer long. As the year transitions to October through December, the UV Index decreases to 12-9, shifting to a very high exposure category in November and December, with slightly longer burn times of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take generous precautions during high-risk months (June to September), which involve using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade to reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
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 |
| Gwagwalada | 11 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 9 |
| Kaduna UVI | 10 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 10 | 10 |