UV Index in Byumba, Rwanda

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Byumba, Rwanda is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health under the warm, tropical sun. With UV levels peaking at 12 around midday, awareness of these indices can significantly aid in sunburn prevention and long-term skin health, especially for residents and visitors enjoying outdoor activities. Byumba’s Aw climate brings unique challenges, as the high-altitude region often experiences intense sunlight and varying UV exposures throughout the day. Staying informed about these levels is key to enjoying all that Byumba has to offer, while keeping your skin safe from harmful rays.

Hourly UV Index in Byumba

At dawn, the UV Index starts low at 1 around 7 AM, gradually rising to 3 by 8 AM. However, from 9 AM, it begins to climb steeply, reaching a peak of 12 at noon, indicating a time for caution and sun protection. The intensity begins to wane in the afternoon, dropping to 8 at 2 PM, and further declining to 5 by 3 PM. As the day winds down, the UV Index lowers significantly to 2 at 4 PM, then 1 at 5 PM, finally fading to 0 after 6 PM. This fluctuation illustrates a clear pattern of midday sun strength, encouraging outdoor enthusiasts to stay vigilant during 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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:003moderate30 min
09:006high25 min
10:009very high15 min
11:0011extreme10 min
12:0012extreme10 min
13:0011extreme10 min
14:008very high15 min
15:005moderate30 min
16:002low45 min
17:001low45 min
18:000low45 min
19:000low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Byumba

Throughout the year, seasonal UV changes indicate consistently high levels of UV radiation across every month, with an extreme exposure category and a quick burn time of just 10 minutes. The high-risk months are particularly prominent from January to April, where UV Index readings peak at 15 to 17. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take preventive measures during these months, including wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade when outdoors. Maintaining vigilance about sun exposure is essential year-round, as even the lower index months still reflect significant UV intensity.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Byumba, Rwanda

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Byumba. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec151716161412121314131313
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Byumba, 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 Byumba UV Index with Other Rwanda Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Byumba compares to other major locations across Rwanda. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.
Byumba's solar exposure compared to other cities in Rwanda. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Gisenyi UVI151616161412111314131313
Kigali UVI151616151412121314131313
Gitarama UVI151616161412121314131313
Butare UVI141617161412121315131313
Byumba151617161412121314141313
Musanze UVI151617161412121314141314