Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Binyiny, Uganda, where the tropical climate brings varying levels of ultraviolet radiation throughout the day. Awareness of these UV levels is essential not only for preventing painful sunburns but also for maintaining long-term skin health. With peak UV Index readings soaring to 12 between 12:00 and 13:00, the risks of skin damage are significant, particularly under the strong afternoon sun. As Binyiny experiences a temperate climate, staying informed about UV exposure helps individuals safeguard their skin while enjoying the natural beauty of their surroundings.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index reveals a dynamic dance of sunlight intensity. Starting off gently at 1 during the early hours, the index climbs steadily, reaching a manageable 4 by 9 AM. The ascent peaks drastically at 12 between 12 PM and 1 PM, signaling the sun's strength at its zenith. A gradual decline begins post-lunch, with the index dropping to 7 by 3 PM, then continuing its descent to 2 by 5 PM. As daylight wanes, the UV Index returns to safe levels, resting at 1 by 6 PM and finally tapering off to 0 by 7 PM. This hourly progression highlights the importance of sun safety, particularly during midday when the UV rays are at their most potent. Remember, protection during high UV Index hours is crucial!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | 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 | 7 | high | 25 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 UV index demonstrates significant seasonal changes, with the highest values occurring from January to April, where it peaks at 16, indicating extreme exposure risk, with a burn time of only 10 minutes. May sees a slight drop to 14, but remains high, while the summer months of June and July maintain an index of 12, still categorized as extreme. As we transition into August, September, and October, the index slightly fluctuates but remains relatively high at 13 and 14, with November and December experiencing a minor decline to 12. Residing or visiting during these high-risk months—particularly January through April—calls for diligent sun protection measures. It's crucial for individuals to limit sun exposure, wear protective clothing, and apply sunscreen frequently, especially during peak sun hours, to avoid severe sunburn and long-term 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 |
| Mbarara UVI | 14 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 12 |
| Binyiny | 15 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 12 |