Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Kyankwanzi, Uganda, where the climate often leads to high levels of ultraviolet radiation. Awareness of UV levels can significantly contribute to sunburn prevention and promote skin health, as prolonged exposure can result in harmful effects. In Kyankwanzi, the daily UV Index can peak at a striking 12 during midday hours, indicating a severe risk for unprotected skin. With the region's warm, sunny climate, it's essential for everyone to take precautions as they enjoy the outdoors, ensuring they remain safe while soaking up the sun.
The UV Index throughout the day reflects a distinct curve of intensity, starting low in the morning hours. Beginning at 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, the sun gradually builds to its peak intensity of 12 by 12:00 and 13:00. This indicates a strong risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure during midday. As the afternoon progresses, the index tapers off, dropping to 10 by 14:00, then down to 8 at 15:00. By late afternoon, the danger diminishes significantly, returning to 1 at 18:00 and finally falling to 0 by 19:00. It’s clear: for the safest sun experience, it’s best to seek shade during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The seasonal UV data reveals consistently high UV Index values, indicating an extreme exposure category year-round, with an overall burn time of only 10 minutes. The high-risk months are January through March, when the UV Index peaks at 14 to 16, posing the greatest threat for sunburn and skin damage. As such, visitors and residents are strongly advised to take protective measures during these months, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade. Although the intensity slightly decreases from June to November, with the Index remaining around 12 to 13, precautionary measures should still be upheld throughout the year to ensure skin health.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kampala UVI | 14 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 12 |
| Jinja UVI | 14 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 12 |
| Kyankwanzi | 14 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 12 |
| Gulu UVI | 14 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 12 |
| Lira UVI | 14 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 12 |
| Mbarara UVI | 14 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 12 |