UV Index in Gitarama, Rwanda

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Gitarama, Rwanda is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet radiation. With a tropical highland climate, this region experiences intense UV exposure, particularly during midday hours, peaking at a significant 14 between noon and 1 PM. By monitoring the UV levels, residents can take proactive measures to prevent sunburn and promote long-term skin health. Given the potential risks associated with high UV exposure, being informed can help you enjoy the sun safely while minimizing the chance of skin damage. Stay vigilant and protect yourself against the sun's rays—awareness is your best defense!

Hourly UV Index in Gitarama

The UV Index starts off the day at a low value of 1 at 07:00, making it a safe time for outdoor activities. As the sun rises higher, the index climbs steadily, reaching a moderate 3 by 08:00 and escalating to a high 10 by 10:00. The peak intensity occurs at 12:00, where it soars to a dangerous 14, urging caution for sun exposure. After this point, the UV levels gradually decline, dropping to 12 by 13:00, and continuing to fall through the afternoon to 5 at 15:00 and down to a low 1 by 17:00. By the evening hours, the UV Index falls to 0, signaling a safe return for outdoor activities without sun protection. Stay informed and protective during those 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	7	high	25 min
10:00	10	very high	15 min
11:00	13	extreme	10 min
12:00	14	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Gitarama

The UV Index data reveals that January through April holds the highest levels of UV exposure, peaking at 16, which classifies these months as having an extreme exposure category. Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious from January to May, as all these months require a burn time of just 10 minutes under the sun. While the UV Index slightly decreases in June (12) and July (12), it remains in the extreme category, and August through December maintains a similar high range of 13 to 14. Therefore, throughout the year, it's crucial for individuals to take protective measures, such as applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during these high-risk months.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Gitarama, Rwanda

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Gitarama. 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 Gitarama, 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 Gitarama UV Index with Other Rwanda Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Gitarama 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.

Gitarama'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	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