Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the health and well-being of residents in Lwengo, Uganda. As you bask in the sun-drenched beauty of this vibrant region, being aware of ultraviolet (UV) levels can significantly help in preventing sunburn and protecting your skin health. With Lwengo's tropical climate, residents are exposed to heightened UV risks, especially during peak hours when the index soars to levels as high as 14 around midday. Staying informed about the UV Index not only enhances your outdoor experiences but also safeguards your long-term skin health—a small effort for a big payoff under the Ugandan sun!
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off gently at 1 by 07:00 and remains steady until 09:00. A noticeable shift occurs at 10:00, with the index climbing to 7, signaling a peak in sun intensity. 11:00 marks the tipping point at 11, and by 12:00, it skyrockets to a striking 13. The intensity reaches its zenith at 13:00 with an impressive 14. However, the afternoon brings a gradual decline, dropping to 12 by 14:00 and then further down to 9 by 15:00. As the sun begins to set, the UV Index descends to 5 at 16:00, tapering off to 2 at 17:00, before fading into the evening with 1 at 18:00 and finally resting at 0 by 19:00. Remember to protect your skin during those peak daylight 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index experiences consistently high levels throughout the year, peaking from January to April with values ranging from 14 to 16, categorizing these months as extreme risk for skin damage, where a mere 10 minutes of unprotected sun exposure can lead to burns. While the index slightly decreases during the summer months of June and July to 12, the high-risk designation remains due to the persistent threat of UV radiation. Even in the fall and winter months, the UV Index does not drop below 12, maintaining an extreme exposure category. It’s vital for both residents and visitors to prioritize sun protection, particularly from January through April. Use of broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, and ensuring limit exposure during peak hours are strongly advised to mitigate health risks associated with prolonged sun exposure.
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 |
| 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 |
| Lwengo | 14 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 12 |
| Mbarara UVI | 14 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 12 |