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.
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	11	extreme	10 min
12:00	12	extreme	10 min
13:00	11	extreme	10 min
14:00	8	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

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.

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.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
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
Byumba	15	16	17	16	14	12	12	13	14	14	13	13
Musanze UVI	15	16	17	16	14	12	12	13	14	14	13	14