Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Zombo, Uganda, as it plays a vital role in protecting skin health and preventing sunburn. With a climate characterized by high temperatures, the UV levels can soar during the day, peaking at a severe 12 around midday. This means that sun safety measures are essential, particularly between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, when the sun’s rays are at their most intense. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can make informed decisions to enjoy the outdoors safely while reducing the risk of long-term skin damage.
The UV Index over the course of the day reveals a dynamic shift in solar intensity. Starting the morning at a low 1 at both 07:00 and 08:00, the intensity rises gradually, reaching a notable 3 by 09:00. As the sun climbs higher, the UV Index spikes dramatically, peaking at a staggering 12 between 13:00 and 14:00, indicating a time when precautions against sun exposure are vital. Following this peak, the levels begin to taper off, dropping to 5 by 16:00, before settling back down to 1 as evening approaches. This fluctuation emphasizes the importance of sun safety during midday hours when UV exposure is at its highest.
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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 9 | 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index remains consistently high, indicating extreme exposure risk. The highest risk months are February and March, with UV Index values reaching 15 and 17, respectively, where even brief sun exposure can lead to burns in just 10 minutes. Other months also show similarly high indexes, ranging from 12 to 17. It is crucial for both visitors and residents to take protective measures during all months, such as wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, and seeking shade, especially during peak sun hours. Staying informed about daily UV levels will help ensure safety while enjoying outdoor activities.
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 |
Zombo | 14 | 15 | 17 | 16 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 12 |