Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Bu'aale, Somalia, where the tropical BWh climate can lead to elevated UV exposure levels. With peak indices reaching as high as 12 during midday hours, being aware of the UV Index can significantly aid in sunburn prevention and promote better skin health. Knowledge of UV levels allows individuals to take necessary precautions—such as seeking shade and using sun protection—especially during the most intense hours. As Bu'aale experiences consistent sunshine, staying informed about UV risks is vital for safeguarding your well-being under the sun.
The UV Index throughout the day presents an interesting pattern as the sun rises and reaches its peak intensity. Starting at a mere 1 at 7:00 AM, it climbs slowly, hitting 2 by 8:00 AM. However, the real surge occurs as the day progresses, with a sharp increase to 5 by 9:00 AM. By 11:00 AM, you'll want to ensure proper sun protection, as it peaks at 10. The intensity reaches its highest point of 12 at 12:00 PM, suggesting maximum caution is needed. As the afternoon rolls on, the index begins to wane, dropping to 9 at 2:00 PM and then steadily declining to 3 by 4:00 PM. Finally, the UV exposure diminishes significantly as the day winds down, returning to a safe 1 by 7:00 PM and 0 by 8:00 PM. Be sure to enjoy the sun wisely!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index remains predominantly high, peaking between January and March with values reaching up to 15, indicating an extreme risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. The months of February and March are particularly critical, as they maintain the highest UV levels, making them essential for sunscreen application and protective measures. Even during June to August, although the UV Index drops slightly to 12, the burn time remains consistently short at just 10 minutes, reinforcing the need for vigilance. As autumn approaches, the UV Index gradually decreases, yet values in October and November still suggest an extreme exposure category. Therefore, it is advisable for residents and visitors alike to take precautions year-round, with particular attention to high-risk months by wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours to minimize skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| 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 UVI | 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 |
| Bu'aale | 13 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 |
| Hargeysa UVI | 13 | 15 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 12 | 15 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 11 |