UV Index in Banfora, Burkina Faso

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Banfora, Burkina Faso, is essential for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn. With its Aw climate, characterized by hot and dry conditions, residents and visitors alike face significant UV exposure, especially during peak hours when the UV Index can soar to levels of 13. Being aware of these UV levels allows you to take proactive measures to protect yourself from harmful rays, ensuring that your outdoor adventures remain enjoyable and safe. Regularly checking the UV Index helps you stay informed about when it's best to seek shade, wear protective clothing, and apply sunscreen, keeping your skin health a top priority in this vibrant region.

Hourly UV Index in Banfora

As the sun rises, the UV Index starts modestly at 1 at 07:00, indicating minimal risk. By 09:00, it climbs to a moderate 5, encouraging outdoor enthusiasts to take precautions. The peak emerges around 12:00, hitting a noticeably high 13, and remains intense until 14:00 when it slightly dips to 11. As the afternoon wanes, the index gradually decreases; by 15:00, it falls to 7, and as evening approaches, it continues its decline to 2 at 17:00. Finally, the UV Index settles at 1 by 18:00, ultimately dipping to a safe 0 by 19:00. It's a day where midday sun protection is paramount!

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	5	moderate	30 min
10:00	8	very high	15 min
11:00	11	extreme	10 min
12:00	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	13	extreme	10 min
14:00	11	extreme	10 min
15:00	7	high	25 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 Banfora

The UV Index experiences significant changes throughout the year, with extreme levels recorded from January to October, peaking at 14 in August and September. This indicates that these months, along with March, April, May, June, July, and October, pose a high risk for UV exposure, where a mere 10 minutes of sun can lead to skin burns. In November and December, the UV Index drops to 10, categorized as very high, allowing for a slightly more extended burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take protective measures, such as using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during the high-risk months of August and September when the UV exposure is at its peak.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Banfora, Burkina Faso

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Banfora compares to other major locations across Burkina Faso. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Banfora's solar exposure compared to other cities in Burkina Faso. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
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	11	11	12	13	13	13	13	14	14	12	10	10