Last updated: June 2, 2025
In the tropical climate of Bilanga, Burkina Faso, understanding the UV Index is crucial for sun safety and skin health. With UV levels peaking at 12 during midday, residents and visitors alike must be vigilant in protecting themselves from harmful sun exposure. Awareness of the UV Index not only helps in preventing sunburns but also plays a significant role in reducing the risk of long-term skin damage. Given the region’s high UV exposure, particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM, staying informed is essential for enjoying the vibrant outdoors while keeping your skin safe and healthy.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a gentle 1 by 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it climbs to 3, indicating a slight increase in UV exposure. The intensity peaks dramatically at 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, both reaching a scorching 12, signaling strong sunlight; this is the time for precaution! As the afternoon progresses, the UV levels gradually descend, with readings of 11 at 1:00 PM and tapering off to 5 by 3:00 PM. As the day winds down, the UV Index returns to safer levels, dropping to 1 by 5:00 PM and fading to 0 by 7:00 PM, reminding us of the sun's fleeting power and the importance of sun safety during the brightest hours.
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 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 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, UV levels demonstrate significant seasonal changes, with the highest risks occurring from March to October. During these months, the UV Index peaks at 14 in August, classifying exposure as extreme with a burn time of just 10 minutes. Meanwhile, January and February start the year with very high and extreme exposures, respectively, showing that UV risks are present even in winter months. As the year concludes, November and December return to very high levels, allowing for a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially between March and October, to minimize the risk of skin damage.
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 |
Bilanga | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 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 UVI | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 10 |