Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Port Harcourt, Nigeria, where the tropical climate leads to intense sun exposure throughout the day. The UV levels often peak at dangerously high rates, particularly between 10 AM and 1 PM, when the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage significantly increases. By staying informed about daily UV readings, you can take proactive measures to protect your skin and overall health, ensuring you enjoy the vibrant outdoors safely. With Port Harcourt's humid conditions and consistent sunshine, being aware of the UV Index helps you make smart choices about sun protection and minimizes your risk of related health issues.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it climbs to 2, signaling the need for a little extra sun protection. The intensity ramps up notably by 9:00 AM, reaching 4, but the real surge occurs at 10:00 AM when it hits 8, marking the beginning of peak UV exposure. The highest reading of the day occurs at noon, soaring to 12—a crucial time for sun safety. The index remains steadfast at 12 until 1:00 PM, then gradually declines, settling at 10 by 2:00 PM. As the afternoon fades, the UV levels wane, dropping to 4 by 4:00 PM, before fading further to 1 at 5:00 PM, and finally to 0 by 7:00 PM. This highlights a clear reminder to stay vigilant during those peak hours when the sun's rays are at their most potent.
| 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 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The seasonal UV changes indicate that the region experiences extreme UV exposure from February through October, with notably high levels peaking in April (UV Index 14). High-risk months include February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, and October, where the burn time is only 10 minutes during peak hours. Conversely, January, November, and December show a reduction in risk with a UV Index of 10 or lower, allowing for a burn time of 15 minutes. Residents and visitors are advised to take necessary precautions during the high-risk months, such as wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade whenever possible to prevent 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 | 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 |