Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the residents of Gousi, Burkina Faso, where the sun shines brightly throughout the year. Awareness of UV levels helps safeguard against sunburn and promotes overall skin health—important considerations given the region's BSh climate, characterized by prolonged periods of intense sunlight. With UV indices peaking at a striking 13 around noon, it's vital for everyone in Gousi to take protective measures against harmful rays to enjoy the great outdoors safely.
The UV Index presents a dynamic story throughout the day, beginning with a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, ideal for a morning stroll. As the sun rises, the intensity increases, hitting 3 by 8:00 AM and reaching 5 at 9:00 AM—a sign that sunscreen should start making an appearance. The peak comes between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, soaring to a striking 11 and then a maximum of 13 at noon, signaling a time when direct sun exposure can be particularly harmful. A gradual decline follows, with the index dropping to 9 by 2:00 PM, and easing back to 1 as evening approaches, reminding us to seek shade during the hottest hours. As the day winds down, the index concludes at 0 by 7:00 PM, inviting a leisurely night's rest.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variations, peaking during the summer months. January starts with a UV Index of 10, categorized as very high, allowing for a burn time of 15 minutes. However, from February to October, the index escalates to extreme levels, reaching a high of 14 in both July and August, with a consistently rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. As the year transitions into late fall, November and December bring the index down to 10 and 9, respectively, both still in the very high category with longer burn times of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious from February to October, where extreme UV exposure is the norm. It is essential to apply sunscreen regularly, wear protective clothing, and seek shade to minimize risk during these high-risk months.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ouahigouya UVI | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 |
Koudougou UVI | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 9 |
Gousi | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 9 |
Ouagadougou UVI | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 9 |
Bobo-Dioulasso UVI | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 10 |
Banfora UVI | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 10 |