Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Yirol, South Sudan, is crucial for ensuring skin health and preventing sunburn. With the region's Aw climate, which features hot and dry conditions, residents and visitors alike must remain vigilant about their sun exposure. The UV levels in Yirol can soar as high as 12 around midday, significantly increasing the risk of skin damage. By monitoring the UV Index, individuals can take proactive steps to protect themselves, ensuring they enjoy the sun safely while minimizing health risks associated with overexposure.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dynamic rise and fall, with the peak intensity occurring at 12:00 PM, where it reaches a striking value of 12. From the early morning hours, starting at 07:00 AM with a low index of 1, the sun's rays gradually strengthen, climbing to 3 by 08:00 AM and 5 by 09:00 AM. The index then surges to 9 at 10:00 AM, hitting 11 by 11:00 AM. Following its zenith, the index slightly declines to 11 again at 1:00 PM before tapering off to 5 at 3:00 PM. As the day progresses, a gentle descent continues, landing back at 1 by 05:00 PM and leading into the evening hours where it eventually drops to 0 by 07:00 PM. This compelling data reminds us of the importance of sun protection during the midday hours when the UV exposure is at its highest.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 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 experiences significant seasonal fluctuations, with extreme exposure levels occurring from January to June and then returning in August and September. The highest risk months, exhibiting a UV Index of 14 to 15, are from March to May, leading to a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. Even in the summer months of June and July, where the UV Index remains at 12 and 13, caution is still advised. As temperatures begin to drop in November and December, the UV Index decreases to 10, but remains categorized as very high, with a burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly encouraged to take protective measures, such as seeking shade, wearing sunscreen, and donning protective clothing, especially during peak UV months to minimize the risk of skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Malakal UVI | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 10 |
| Winejok UVI | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 10 |
| Yirol | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 10 |
| Wau UVI | 11 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 10 |
| Juba UVI | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 10 |
| Yei UVI | 13 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 11 |