Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Beterou, Benin, where the tropical Aw climate brings high levels of sun exposure, particularly during the peak hours of the day. Keeping track of UV levels helps prevent sunburn and promotes overall skin health, making it essential knowledge for everyone, especially those who spend time outdoors. With UV Index values peaking at an intense 13 around midday, awareness is vital in mitigating the risks associated with prolonged sun exposure, ensuring that you can enjoy the beautiful weather without compromising your well-being.
The UV Index today presents a compelling narrative of midday intensity. Starting off gently at 1 during the early hours of 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM, the sun's power gradually builds, reaching 3 by 9:00 AM. As the day progresses, the UV levels peak dramatically, hitting a striking 12 at 12:00 PM and soaring to an impressive 13 by 1:00 PM—a clear indicator of the sun's strength. After this zenith, the index begins to decline, dropping to 9 at 3:00 PM, and continuing down to 1 by the evening hours starting at 6:00 PM. For those venturing outdoors, it’s crucial to protect yourself during the midday hours when the sun's rays are at their most potent.
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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index data highlights significant seasonal variations in UV exposure, with months from March to September classified as high-risk due to consistently extreme ratings of 12 to 13. Notably, April, July, and August are the peak months, where prolonged outdoor activities can lead to sunburn in just 10 minutes. As the year transitions to fall and winter, the UV Index gradually decreases, but November and December still maintain a very high level, with a slightly increased burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions year-round, including wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak hours, particularly from March through September.
UV Risk Categories
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 |
Bohicon UVI | 11 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 9 |
Beterou | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 10 | 10 |
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 |