UV Index in Banikoara, Benin

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Banikoara, Benin, understanding the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin and overall health. With a tropical Aw climate that often brings intense sunlight, knowledge of UV levels can help prevent painful sunburns and long-term skin damage. During the day, particularly between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM, UV Index readings peak at levels 9 to 12, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By staying informed about these levels, residents can make informed decisions to enjoy the outdoors safely while safeguarding their skin health.

Hourly UV Index in Banikoara

The UV Index throughout the day presents a clear rise and fall pattern, peaking at 12:00 PM with a striking UV index of 11. The morning starts gentle, with readings at 07:00 AM and 08:00 AM barely hitting 1 and 2, indicating minimal risk for sun exposure. As the clock ticks, the intensity gradually escalates, hitting 9 by 11:00 AM and soaring to its maximum at 12:00 PM. After that high point, it begins to wane, dropping to 8 at 3:00 PM, before swiftly declining to 1 by 6:00 PM. This data underscores the importance of protecting your skin during peak hours—particularly from noon to early afternoon, when the sun’s rays are at their most potent.

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	2	low	45 min
09:00	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	6	high	25 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	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	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Banikoara

The UV Index experiences seasonal fluctuations, with the most intense levels occurring from March to October, where it consistently reaches extremes. High-risk months include April to September, when the UV Index peaks at levels 12 to 13, translating to an alarming burn time of just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should exercise caution during these months by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and using sunscreen to minimize the risk of skin damage. In contrast, November and December see a slight decline to a very high exposure category, with burn times increasing to 15 minutes, yet precautions should still be taken. Staying informed about the UV Index can significantly enhance sun safety practices throughout the year.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Banikoara, Benin

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Banikoara. 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 Banikoara, 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 Banikoara UV Index with Other Benin Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Banikoara compares to other major locations across Benin. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Banikoara's solar exposure compared to other cities in Benin. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Porto-Novo UVI	11	11	12	14	12	11	12	12	12	12	9	9
Abomey-Calavi UVI	11	11	12	14	12	11	12	12	12	12	9	9
Banikoara	11	11	12	13	11	12	13	13	13	12	10	9
Bohicon UVI	11	11	12	14	13	12	12	12	13	12	9	9
Parakou UVI	11	11	12	13	12	12	13	13	13	11	10	10
Djougou UVI	11	12	12	14	12	13	13	13	13	12	10	10