UV Index in Parakou, Benin

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Parakou, Benin is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful ultraviolet rays. The UV levels can fluctuate significantly throughout the day, peaking at a high of 12 between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM, making awareness vital for effective sunburn prevention and long-term skin health. With Parakou's Aw climate characterized by warm temperatures and abundant sunshine, residents and visitors alike must be vigilant about UV exposure risks. By staying informed about daily UV levels, you can enjoy outdoor activities while minimizing the potential harm to your skin.

Hourly UV Index in Parakou

The UV Index provides a compelling insight into daily sun exposure, with a noticeable rise as the day progresses. Starting off the morning at a modest 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, the index climbs steadily, reaching a threshold of 3 by 09:00. The sun reaches its peak intensity around 12:00, hitting a striking 11, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. This UV intensity remains formidable, peaking at 12 by 13:00. As the afternoon wanes, the UV Index gradually declines to 8 at 15:00, before dipping to a safe 1 by 18:00 and dropping to 0 by 19:00. It’s essential to take precautions during the midday hours to shield against the sun’s 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	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	4	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 Parakou

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Parakou, Benin

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Parakou 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.

Parakou'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
Bohicon UVI	11	11	12	14	13	12	12	12	13	12	9	9
Parakou	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