Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Yako, Burkina Faso, where the intense sun can lead to significant skin health issues, including sunburn and long-term damage. With a climate categorized as BSh, Yako experiences high UV levels, particularly during peak hours from 10 AM to 2 PM, when the index can reach extreme levels of 14. Being aware of the UV forecast helps the community take appropriate precautions, ensuring safe outdoor activities and promoting overall skin health. Together, we can make informed decisions to enjoy the sunny skies while protecting ourselves from the harmful effects of UV radiation.
The UV Index starts off low at 07:00 with a gentle 1, perfect for morning activities. As the day progresses, it escalates sharply, peaking at a challenging 14 around 12:00, signaling the need for sun protection. The intensity begins to taper off post-lunch, with readings of 10 at 14:00 and dropping to a milder 4 by 16:00. By the evening hours, from 17:00 onwards, the index declines significantly, returning to a safe 1 by 18:00 and finally hitting 0 at 19:00. It’s a classic sunny day, highlighting the importance of vigilance against UV exposure during peak 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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, with the highest levels occurring during the summer months. From March to October, the UV Index typically falls within the extreme category, peaking at 14 in July and August, where the burn time is a mere 10 minutes. Conversely, in the winter months (January, February, and December), while the index remains elevated (ranging from 9 to 11), the burn time increases to 15 minutes, indicating a somewhat lower risk for skin damage. High-risk months for sun exposure are March through October, particularly July and August, warranting vigilance from both visitors and residents. It is advised to take precautions during peak sun hours by wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade whenever possible to safeguard against adverse health effects from harmful UV radiation.
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 |
| Yako | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 14 | 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 |