Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Kibungo, Rwanda, is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. Given the region's Aw climate, which often features strong sun exposure, being aware of UV levels can help you protect yourself during peak sunlight hours. With UV Index values soaring to 12 between noon and 1 PM, it's vital to take protective measures to reduce the risk of skin damage. By learning about the daily UV fluctuations, residents and visitors alike can enjoy the vibrant outdoors while safeguarding their skin from harmful rays.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a dynamic range of solar intensity, peaking at 12 around noon. Starting the day gently, the index registers a low 1 at 7:00 AM, gradually rising to 2 by 8:00 AM. As the sun climbs higher, it reaches 5 by 9:00 AM, then surges to a robust 11 by 11:00 AM, signaling higher caution for outdoor activities. The peak at midday is a daunting 12, urging everyone to seek shade and wear protective gear. The intensity begins to taper off in the afternoon, dropping back to 8 at 2:00 PM and further to 5 by 3:00 PM. By the late afternoon, the index drops significantly to 1 at 5:00 PM and settles at 0 by 6:00 PM, giving a gentle reminder that the sun's might can vary dramatically throughout the day.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index remains alarmingly high, consistently categorized as extreme from January through May, with values ranging from 14 to 16. The high-risk months are primarily from January to April when the UV Index is at its peak of 15 to 16, indicating that unprotected skin can burn in just 10 minutes. Although the UV Index slightly decreases in the summer months of June and July, it remains at 12, still posing a significant risk. As we transition into the late summer and fall, the index stabilizes around 13 to 14. Visitors and residents should take precautions by applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours. Being vigilant about sun safety is crucial year-round given the consistently high UV levels.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Kibungo | 15 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 |
Gisenyi UVI | 15 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 |
Kigali UVI | 15 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 |
Gitarama UVI | 15 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 |
Butare UVI | 14 | 16 | 17 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 13 | 13 | 13 |
Musanze UVI | 15 | 16 | 17 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 14 |