Last updated: June 2, 2025
In So-Ava, Benin, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With a climate classified as Aw, the region experiences notable exposure to ultraviolet radiation, especially during peak hours. Understanding how UV levels fluctuate—climbing to a maximum of 12 around noon—can significantly aid in protecting yourself and your loved ones from the harmful effects of UV rays. Armed with knowledge about the UV Index, residents and visitors can enjoy the stunning outdoors while safeguarding their skin against potential damage.
Today’s UV index shows an early morning of low exposure, starting at a safe 1 at 07:00 and 08:00. However, as the sun rises, the index sharply climbs, hitting 3 by 09:00 and reaching a peak of 12 by 13:00, signifying a high risk period for sun exposure. The intensity begins to decline in the afternoon, dropping to 8 at 15:00 and down to 1 by 18:00, before finally settling at a 0 by 19:00. If you're planning to be outdoors today, it's vital to take precautions between 10:00 and 14:00 when the UV levels are at their most intense. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!
| 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 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 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 |
The UV Index exhibits extreme levels from January through June, peaking in April at a UV Index of 14, with a consistent burn time of 10 minutes throughout these months. Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious, as the high-risk months for sun exposure include March through October, where the UV Index remains at 12 or higher. As we move into November and December, the risk lowers to very high levels (UV Index of 9) with a slightly increased burn time of 15 minutes. It is essential for everyone to take precautionary measures during these months by wearing protective clothing, sunglasses, and applying sunscreen regularly, especially during peak sun hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| So-Ava | 11 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 12 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 9 | 9 |
| 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 |
| 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 |