Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Kapchorwa, Uganda is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn, especially given the area’s unique climate. With its high-altitude location and a Cfb climate, residents and visitors alike face significant UV exposure during peak hours, particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM, when the index can reach a staggering 12. By staying informed about the daily UV levels, you can take proactive steps to safeguard your skin and enjoy the sunny days in this beautiful region without the harsh side effects of overexposure to sunlight.
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 |
| Kapchorwa | 15 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 12 |