UV Index in So-Ava, Benin

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of So-Ava, Benin, where the tropical Aw climate brings intense sun exposure year-round. With daily peaks reaching 12—indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure—being aware of local UV levels is essential for protecting your skin from sunburn and long-term health issues. With the sun's intensity spiking significantly around midday, familiarizing yourself with the UV Index can empower you to make informed decisions about sun safety, ensuring that you enjoy the beautiful outdoor offerings of So-Ava without compromising your skin health.

Hourly UV Index in So-Ava

As the sun rises, the UV Index remains low, starting at 1 between 07:00 and 08:00. However, by 09:00, it climbs to 4, hinting at a more intense day ahead. The peak arrives at 12:00, where it reaches a blistering 12, indicating a significant risk for unprotected skin. This high level of UV exposure persists through the early afternoon, maintaining 12 until 13:00, before gradually tapering off to 11 at 14:00. As the day wanes, the index declines to 8 at 15:00, 5 at 16:00, and finally settles back to 1 by 18:00. Thankfully, by 19:00, it drops to 0, signaling a safe end to sun exposure. Plan your day wisely to dodge those midday rays!

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	4	moderate	30 min
10:00	7	high	25 min
11:00	10	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 So-Ava

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for So-Ava, Benin

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in So-Ava 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.

So-Ava'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
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