Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Grand-Popo, Benin, being aware of the UV Index is essential for safeguarding your skin and overall health. Understanding the UV levels throughout the day can help you take proactive measures against sunburn and long-term skin damage, especially in a tropical climate where exposure can be significant. With UV Index values peaking at 12 during midday hours and a warm, Aw climate, the risk of harmful ultraviolet radiation is heightened, making it crucial to stay informed and protect yourself while enjoying the beautiful beaches and outdoor activities that Grand-Popo has to offer.
The UV Index throughout the day tells an engaging story of the sun's intensity. Early morning hours greet us gently, peaking at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM. As the day progresses, the UV Index begins to rise, reaching a moderate 3 by 9:00 AM before soaring to a 6 at 10:00 AM. The real intensity kicks in around 11:00 AM, where it skyrockets to 9 and hits a staggering peak of 11 at 12:00 PM. The sun continues to blaze during the afternoon, with the index reaching a maximum of 12 at 1:00 PM. Following this zenith, the UV levels start to decline, tapering off to 10 by 2:00 PM, then gently falling to 8 at 3:00 PM. As evening approaches, the UV Index continues to decrease, settling back to 5 by 4:00 PM and winding down to a soft 2 by 5:00 PM, before fading to 1 as dusk settles in at 6:00 PM and beyond. It’s a vivid reminder to stay sun-safe, especially during those peak hours!
| 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index shows significant seasonal fluctuations, with extreme levels persisting from January to October, peaking in April at 14. This period represents the highest risk for UV exposure, with a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes across the board. Although the UV risk begins to decrease in November and December, these months still maintain a very high category with a burn time of 15 minutes. Residents and visitors are urged to take precautionary measures during these months, including using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding prolonged sun exposure, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM when UV intensity is greatest.
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 |
| Grand-Popo | 11 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 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 |