Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Ouahigouya, Burkina Faso, staying aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With high UV levels, particularly during the midday hours where values can soar to 12, understanding these readings can make all the difference in preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage. The city's tropical BSh climate brings intense sunlight, especially from 10 AM to 2 PM, making it essential to take proper precautions during these peak times. By staying informed about the daily UV Index, you can enjoy the sun safely while prioritizing your skin's health!
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dramatic rise in intensity, peaking at 12 between noon and 1 PM, signaling a high level of risk for unprotected skin. Early morning starts off with a gentle 1 at 7 AM, gradually climbing to 3 by 8 AM. As the sun approaches its zenith, the index escalates to 9 by 10 AM and hits that critical mark of 11 at 11 AM. After reaching the zenith, the UV levels begin to recede, falling back to 9 by 2 PM and tapering off to 3 at 4 PM. By 6 PM, it drops to 1, and finally, the day concludes with a 0 by 7 PM, marking a complete retreat of UV intensity. It’s essential to stay protected, especially during those peak hours!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 12 | 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 exhibits significant seasonal changes, peaking during the summer months of July and August with an Index of 14, categorized as extreme, where the burn time is as short as 10 minutes. The spring and early fall months, from March to September, also fall under the extreme category, indicating a heightened risk for skin damage. January, November, and December see a gradual decline with an Index of 10 and 9, categorized as very high, with slightly longer burn times of 15 minutes. Given these insights, both visitors and residents should exercise caution, prioritizing sun protection measures—such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing—especially from March to October when UV levels are most hazardous. Adjustment of outdoor activities to earlier or later in the day can further mitigate risk.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ouahigouya | 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 |