Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Sembabule, Uganda, being aware of the UV Index is essential for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With high UV levels, particularly peaking at 14 around midday, understanding these readings can help prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. The region's Aw climate contributes to intense sunlight exposure, making it crucial for residents and visitors alike to stay informed about daily UV conditions. By tracking the UV Index, you can take necessary precautions—like seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen—ensuring you enjoy the beautiful Ugandan sun safely.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off gently at 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, making for a safe morning outside. However, as the day progresses, the intensity increases, reaching 3 by 09:00. By 10:00, the index soars to 7, indicating a stronger need for sun protection. The peak occurs at 12:00, with a striking 13, followed closely by 14 at 13:00, when the sun is at its most aggressive. The afternoon sees a gradual decline, with values dropping to 12 at 14:00 and tapering off to 8 by 15:00. As the sun sets, the UV Index falls quickly, returning to 2 at 17:00 and finally fading to 1 by 18:00. By nightfall, it concludes its cycle at 0 at 19:00. It’s a reminder of the ever-changing strength of ultraviolet rays throughout the day!
| 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 | 8 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels remain consistently high, particularly from January to May, where values peak at 16 in March and maintain extreme exposure categories. This pattern continues into the summer, with UV Indexes around 12 to 14 from June to September. Thus, the high-risk months for UV exposure are March and February, with values of 16 and 15, respectively. To ensure safety, both visitors and residents should take protective measures throughout the year, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, especially during these high-risk months, as burn time remains at just 10 minutes across all months. Staying hydrated and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours is also crucial to minimize the risk of skin damage.
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 |
| Sembabule | 14 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 12 |
| Mbarara UVI | 14 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 12 |