Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Gayeri, Burkina Faso, where the climate is characterized as BSh (Arid and Semi-arid). With the sun's intensity peaking at a high UV Index of 12 during midday, awareness of UV levels can significantly reduce the risk of sunburn and contribute to long-term skin health. By keeping a close eye on these levels, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from harmful UV radiation, ensuring safe outdoor activities in this sun-soaked region. Staying informed about daily UV exposure helps you enjoy the vibrant outdoors while safeguarding your skin against potential 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 |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels exhibit significant seasonal variation, peaking during the summer months. From January to March, the UV Index escalates from 10 to 12 with exposure categorized as very high to extreme, indicating a burn time as short as 10–15 minutes. The highest risk months are from June to August, where the UV Index surges to a peak of 14, maintaining an extremely high risk with a burn time of only 10 minutes. As fall approaches, the index gradually decreases, yet remains in the extreme category through September and October. By November and December, the UV Index drops to 9, still classified as very high but allowing for slightly longer burn times of 15 minutes. Residents and visitors are advised to take great care during the high-risk months, particularly from April to October. It’s essential to apply broad-spectrum sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade to reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gayeri | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 9 |
| 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 UVI | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 10 |