Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Lira, Uganda, awareness of the UV Index is essential for protecting skin health and preventing sunburn. With a typical Aw climate that brings ample sunshine, understanding the local UV levels helps residents and visitors safeguard themselves from harmful rays. Throughout the day, especially around midday, UV levels can reach severe highs, making it crucial to stay informed and take appropriate precautions. By monitoring the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful Ugandan sun while keeping your skin safe from long-term damage.
The UV Index fluctuates dramatically throughout the day, peaking in intensity around noon. Starting at a mild 1 at 07:00, the index gradually climbs, reaching 6 by 10:00. The sun's strength culminates at a blazing 12 from 12:00 to 13:00, making this the most crucial time to protect your skin. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to dip, dropping to 10 at 14:00, then easing down to 7 by 15:00. By evening, the levels plummet, settling back to a safe 0 by 19:00. It's wise to stay sun-savvy: midday is when the UV rays can be most harmful!
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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
11:00 | 9 | 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 seasonal UV data reveals consistently high UV Index values, indicating an extreme exposure category year-round, with an overall burn time of only 10 minutes. The high-risk months are January through March, when the UV Index peaks at 14 to 16, posing the greatest threat for sunburn and skin damage. As such, visitors and residents are strongly advised to take protective measures during these months, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade. Although the intensity slightly decreases from June to November, with the Index remaining around 12 to 13, precautionary measures should still be upheld throughout the year to ensure skin health.
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 | 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 |