UV Index in Zaria, Nigeria

Last updated: August 1, 2025

Awareness of the UV Index is crucial for residents of Zaria, Nigeria, especially given the region's hot Aw climate, which can expose you to harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Understanding UV levels not only plays a vital role in preventing sunburn but also significantly contributes to long-term skin health. The UV Index in Zaria can soar to a maximum of 13 around noon, indicating extreme risk; hence, knowing when to take precautions is essential. With such high exposure risks, being informed about the UV Index empowers you to enjoy the sun safely while protecting your skin from potential damage.

Hourly UV Index in Zaria

At sunrise, the UV Index starts off gently at 1 by 07:00, but as the day unfolds, it quickly ramps up, reaching 2 by 08:00. By 09:00, it climbs to 4, hinting at the increasing intensity of the sun. The peak arrives around 12:00, when the index soars to a maximum of 13, making midday the most critical time for sun safety. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to decline, with values dropping to 11 by 14:00 and tapering off to 7 by 15:00. The UV Index continues to decrease as evening approaches, settling back to 2 by 17:00 and falling to a safe 0 by 19:00—a reminder of the importance of sun protection during those peak hours!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
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	8	very high	15 min
11:00	11	extreme	10 min
12:00	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	13	extreme	10 min
14:00	11	extreme	10 min
15:00	8	very high	15 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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Zaria

During the year, the UV Index fluctuates significantly, showcasing high-risk months particularly from February to September, where values reach extreme levels of 11 to 13. Notably, July and August represent the peak of UV exposure, with an index of 13, indicating only a 10-minute burn time. Conversely, the burn time increases to 15 minutes in the low-risk months of January, November, and December. As a precaution, both visitors and residents should prioritize sun safety practices during high UV months—seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying broad-spectrum sunscreen to minimize the risk of skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Zaria, Nigeria

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Zaria. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Zaria, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Zaria UV Index with Other Nigeria Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Zaria compares to other major locations across Nigeria. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Zaria's solar exposure compared to other cities in Nigeria. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
Zaria	10	11	12	12	11	12	13	13	12	11	10	10
Kaduna UVI	10	12	12	12	11	12	13	13	13	11	10	10