UV Index in Lira, Uganda

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Lira, Uganda, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. With high sun exposure typical of the Aw climate zone, understanding UV levels helps prevent sunburns and long-term skin health issues. From a moderate index in the morning to a peak of 12 at noon, the variation in UV radiation throughout the day highlights the importance of sun safety practices. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, residents can enjoy the sunshine while safeguarding their skin from potential damage.

Hourly UV Index in Lira

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins to climb steadily. Starting at a mere 1 at 07:00, it remains low until 09:00 when it jumps to 3. However, by 10:00, the index surges to 6, signaling that it’s time to protect your skin. The peak occurs at 12:00 and 13:00, reaching an intense 12—a time when sun safety is critical. From there, the numbers start to wane; 11:00 sees a 9, and by 15:00, it drops to 8. The afternoon offers relief as the index lowers to 2 by 17:00, and settles back to 1 at 18:00, before fading to 0 by 19:00. This hourly journey highlights the importance of being sun-aware 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.
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	11	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Lira

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Lira, Uganda

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Lira. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Lira, 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 Lira UV Index with Other Uganda Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Lira 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.

Lira's solar exposure compared to other cities in Uganda. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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