Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Tchaourou, Benin, understanding the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With its Aw climate, characterized by a tropical wet and dry season, Tchaourou experiences varying levels of UV radiation throughout the day. Notably, the peak UV Index can reach up to 13 between midday hours, significantly increasing the risk of skin damage. Being aware of these UV levels not only helps residents protect themselves from harmful effects but also promotes a healthier lifestyle in a sun-drenched environment.
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 |
Tchaourou | 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 |