Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Ouargaye, Burkina Faso is crucial for promoting skin health and preventing sunburn, especially given the region's tropical climate characterized by high levels of solar radiation. With UV index levels peaking at 12 around midday, residents and visitors need to be aware of how to protect themselves from the sun's harmful effects. Knowing the UV levels helps you plan your outdoor activities wisely and take necessary precautions, such as wearing protective clothing or applying sunscreen. By staying informed about the daily UV forecast, you can enjoy the beautiful sunshine of Ouargaye while minimizing your risk of skin damage.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index reveals a dramatic rise in solar intensity. At 07:00, it starts modestly at 1, but by 09:00, it reaches 6, signaling the need for sun protection. The peak occurs at 12:00, when the index soars to an impressive 12, marking the most potent sun exposure of the day. Following this zenith, a gradual descent begins; by 15:00, the index drops to 5. The evening hours offer relief, with readings falling back to 1 by 17:00 and tapering off further to 0 as the sun sets after 19:00. Overall, noon to early afternoon presents a critical window for sun safety!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal changes, reaching its peak during the summer months, particularly in August with an index of 14, indicating extreme exposure and a burn time of just 10 minutes. High-risk months for UV exposure span from January to September, maintaining an extreme exposure category throughout. Visitors and residents should take precautions during these high-risk months by wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade to minimize the risks associated with sun exposure. As we move into October, the UV Index slightly decreases to 12, but still requires attention, while November and December present a notable reduction in risk, classified as very high with burn times increasing to 15 minutes. Staying informed and cautious year-round is key to ensuring safety from harmful UV rays.
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 |
| Ouagadougou UVI | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 9 |
| Ouargaye | 11 | 12 | 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 |