UV Index in Jinja, Uganda

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Awareness of the UV Index in Jinja, Uganda, is essential for your health, especially as the region typically experiences heightened UV exposure due to its warm Af climate. Understanding UV levels is crucial not just for sunburn prevention but also for safeguarding your long-term skin health. With peak UV indices reaching a staggering 13 during midday hours, residents and visitors alike must stay informed to mitigate risks. Whether you’re enjoying outdoor activities by the Nile or exploring the vibrant local culture, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen can make all the difference in protecting your skin and ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience in Jinja’s sunny paradise.

Hourly UV Index in Jinja

The UV Index today presents a dynamic range of exposure throughout the day. Early morning starts off mild, with a maximum of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00. However, as the sun rises, we transition into a more intense midday, peaking at a striking 13 between 12:00 and 13:00. This is when sun protection is crucial, especially as the index dips to 8 by 15:00 and gradually decreases to a safe 0 by 19:00. Enjoy the outdoors, but remember to stay protected during peak hours!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:001low45 min
09:004moderate30 min
10:007high25 min
11:0011extreme10 min
12:0013extreme10 min
13:0013extreme10 min
14:0011extreme10 min
15:008very high15 min
16:005moderate30 min
17:002low45 min
18:001low45 min
19:000low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Jinja

The UV Index in this region remains consistently high throughout the year, with values peaking at 16 in March. January through May marks the extreme risk period, with UV Indexes ranging from 14 to 16, indicating a burn time of just 10 minutes for unprotected skin. As we move into the summer months of June and July, the UV Index slightly decreases to 11, but still falls under the extreme category, maintaining the 10-minute burn time. Even during the fall months of September and October, with values hovering around 12 to 13, caution is essential. November and December see a slight dip in UV levels, yet they remain at 12. Visitors and residents are advised to take necessary precautions throughout the year, including wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during peak sun hours, to minimize the risks associated with high UV exposure.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Jinja, Uganda

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Jinja. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec141516151311111213121212
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Jinja, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Jinja UV Index with Other Uganda Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Jinja compares to other major locations across Uganda. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.
Jinja's solar exposure compared to other cities in Uganda. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Kampala UVI141516151311111213121212
Jinja141516151311111213121212
Gulu UVI141516151412121314131212
Lira UVI141516151412121213131212
Mbarara UVI141516151412121314131212