Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the health and well-being of residents in Koudougou, Burkina Faso. With its hot BSh climate, the region experiences daily peaks in UV radiation that can lead to serious skin issues, including sunburn and long-term health risks. By staying informed about the UV levels—ranging from a moderate 3 in the morning to a scorching 13 at midday—you can take proactive steps to protect your skin and enjoy the vibrant sunshine safely. Whether you plan to work outdoors or engage in leisure activities, a little awareness goes a long way in ensuring skin health and preventing sun-related complications.
The UV Index tells a vivid story of the day’s sun intensity. Starting at 1 at 7:00 AM, the sun gradually awakens, climbing to 3 by 8:00 AM. As the morning progresses, the UV Index skyrockets, peaking at an exhilarating 13 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM—a clear signal to slip on those shades and apply sunscreen! The intensity then begins its descent, dropping to 9 at 2:00 PM, before tapering down through 6 at 3:00 PM and finally resting at 1 by 5:00 PM. As dusk approaches, the UV Index dwindles down to 0 by 7:00 PM, drawing the curtain on a day of warm, radiant rays.
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 | 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 |
The UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal variation, peaking in August with an index of 14, categorized as extreme, where the recommended burn time is just 10 minutes. From February to October, the UV Index remains consistently high to extreme, posing an elevated risk for skin damage, particularly from March to September when values range from 12 to 14. In contrast, the winter months of January, November, and December present less intensity, with January and November reporting a very high UV Index of 10 and burn times of 15 minutes. To protect against harmful UV exposure, visitors and residents are strongly advised to limit time outdoors during peak hours, wear protective clothing, and use broad-spectrum sunscreen throughout the year, especially during the summer months when the risk is at its highest.
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 | 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 UVI | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 10 |