UV Index in Mogadishu, Somalia

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Mogadishu, Somalia is crucial for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn. With the city’s BSh climate, residents and visitors alike face higher UV exposure, particularly during midday when levels can peak at a hazardous 12. By staying informed about daily UV levels, you can take proactive measures to protect yourself from the sun's harmful rays, ensuring a safer and healthier experience under the Somali sun.

Hourly UV Index in Mogadishu

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 Mogadishu

The UV Index displays an extreme risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure throughout the year, peaking in March and April with an Index of 15. The months of January and February are also high-risk, with UV Index values of 13 and 14, respectively, indicating a critical need for sun protection. From May to July, UV levels remain significant, although they slightly decrease to 12. Visitors and residents should prioritize sun safety by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying broad-spectrum sunscreen with high SPF, especially during these high-risk months. It is crucial to recognize that even in the latter months, from August to November, the risk remains elevated, emphasizing the importance of consistent sun safety practices year-round.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Mogadishu, Somalia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Mogadishu compares to other major locations across Somalia. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Mogadishu's solar exposure compared to other cities in Somalia. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Berbera UVI	12	13	13	14	13	11	13	14	12	11	11	10
Marka UVI	13	14	15	15	14	12	12	12	13	13	12	11
Mogadishu	13	14	15	15	14	12	12	13	13	13	12	11
Kismayo UVI	13	14	15	15	14	11	11	12	13	13	12	12
Hargeysa UVI	13	15	15	16	15	12	15	16	14	12	12	11