Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Lagos, Nigeria, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels can significantly aid in preventing sunburns and reducing the risk of skin-related issues. With Lagos' tropical climate, characterized by high humidity and intense sunlight, awareness of UV exposure is essential, especially during peak hours when the index can reach a staggering 11. This makes it imperative for residents and visitors alike to take necessary precautions, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience under the sun.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins to climb steadily throughout the morning. Starting from a safe 1 at 07:00, it gradually reaches 3 by 09:00. However, the real intensity hits its peak during midday, soaring to a striking 11 at both 12:00 and 13:00, making it crucial to protect yourself from harmful rays. As the afternoon progresses, the index drops to 10 at 14:00 and further declines to 8 by 15:00. As evening approaches, the UV levels decrease, falling to 1 by 18:00 and finally hitting a 0 at 19:00. To stay safe, be mindful of sun exposure from late morning to early afternoon when the UV levels are at their highest!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Seasonal UV changes indicate that from January to April, the UV Index remains consistently high, peaking at 13 in April, which falls under the extreme exposure category, meaning burn time is only 10 minutes during this period. May to October continues the trend with a sustained extreme category, with the UV Index fluctuating between 11 and 12, maintaining a 10-minute burn time. High-risk months are particularly evident from March to September, where residents and visitors should exercise extra caution. Conversely, November and December see a drop in UV levels, yet still pose risks with very high exposure (UV Index 9 and 8, respectively), and a longer burn time of 15 minutes. It’s crucial for individuals to wear protective clothing, apply sunscreen regularly, and seek shade, especially during peak sunlight hours, to minimize sun damage and health risks throughout the year.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Lagos | 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 |
Kaduna UVI | 10 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 10 | 10 |