UV Index in Gaya, Nigeria

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Gaya, Nigeria, as it plays a vital role in safeguarding skin health and preventing sunburn. With the town's semi-arid climate characterized by intense sun exposure, awareness of UV levels is essential for making informed decisions about outdoor activities. Typically peaking at 11 around midday, the UV Index in Gaya can pose significant risks if precautions are not taken. By monitoring these levels, you can protect yourself against potential skin damage and enjoy the sun responsibly.

Hourly UV Index in Gaya

The UV Index throughout the day shows a significant rise in intensity, peaking at 11 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM. Starting from a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, the index climbs steadily, hitting 10 just before noon. The sun reaches its zenith at 11:00 AM, providing ample opportunity for outdoor activities, but caution is warranted as the UV levels become dangerous. By 2:00 PM, the index begins to taper off to 8, and by 3:00 PM, it drops to a more manageable 6. As the afternoon progresses into the evening, the UV levels significantly decrease, returning to a low 1 by 5:00 PM. Finally, they fall to 0 after 7:00 PM, indicating a safe end to sun exposure for the day. Remember to take care during the peak hours when UV radiation is at its highest!

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	7	high	25 min
11:00	10	very high	15 min
12:00	11	extreme	10 min
13:00	11	extreme	10 min
14:00	8	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Gaya

The UV Index experiences significant seasonal changes, peaking during the summer months. From January to April, there is a gradual increase in UV levels, reaching a maximum UV Index of 13 from July to September, indicating extreme exposure levels where burn time can be as little as 10 minutes. In contrast, the fall and winter months of November to December show a decrease, with a UV Index of 10, categorized as very high, allowing for a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should exercise caution, especially during February to September, when the UV Index remains extremely high. It is advisable to wear protective clothing, use broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seek shade to minimize the risk of skin damage during these peak months.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Gaya, Nigeria

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Gaya. 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 Gaya, 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 Gaya UV Index with Other Nigeria Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Gaya 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.

Gaya'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
Gaya	10	12	13	12	11	11	13	13	13	11	10	10
Kaduna UVI	10	12	12	12	11	12	13	13	13	11	10	10