UV Index in Gitarama, Rwanda

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Gitarama, Rwanda, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburn but also plays a significant role in reducing long-term skin damage. With Gitarama's climate classified as Aw, residents and visitors alike should be mindful of the elevated UV exposure, particularly during midday hours when the index can peak at 12. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful sun-soaked days in Gitarama while protecting your skin from harmful effects.

Hourly UV Index in Gitarama

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 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