UV Index in Parakou, Benin

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Parakou, Benin, staying aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your health under the sun. Understanding UV levels not only helps prevent painful sunburns but also promotes long-term skin health. Given the city's Aw climate, residents and visitors alike are exposed to significant UV risks, particularly during midday hours when the index peaks at a striking 12. Be informed and take measures to safeguard your skin, especially when UV radiation is at its highest between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM. Your awareness can make all the difference in enjoying the sun safely!

Hourly UV Index in Parakou

The UV Index today presents a notable rise in intensity as the morning unfolds. Starting at a modest 1 at 07:00, it gradually escalates to a peak of 12 between 12:00 and 13:00, signaling a high risk for harmful UV exposure. As the afternoon progresses, the readings dip to 11 at 14:00, and then a steady decline leads to a more manageable 5 by 16:00. By evening, the index falls back to 1 by 19:00, marking a significant contrast to the midday sun. Remember to protect your skin during the peak hours of 11:00 to 14:00!

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	4	moderate	30 min
10:00	6	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	1	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