Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents of Absouya, Burkina Faso, where the climate falls within the BSh category—a semi-arid zone characterized by hot temperatures and intense sunlight. The UV levels can peak dramatically, with values reaching as high as 13 during midday hours. This highlights the importance of being aware of UV exposure to effectively prevent sunburn and protect skin health. By familiarizing yourself with the UV Index, you can make informed decisions about outdoor activities, ensuring you enjoy the sun safely while safeguarding your well-being against harmful effects.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index rises dramatically, peaking at 13 around 12:00 PM, signaling a maximum level of sun intensity. Early morning hours start off mild, with a low of 1 at 07:00 and climbing steadily to 6 by 09:00. The sun reaches its zenith at 11:00, with a value of 12, before gradually declining through the afternoon. By 15:00, the index drops to 6, further falling to 3 by 16:00 and finally returning to a safe 1 by 17:00. As twilight approaches, the index settles to 0 after 19:00, providing a serene close to the day. Remember to protect your skin during the peak hours from 10 AM to 2 PM, when the sun's rays are most potent!
| 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 | 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 exhibits significant seasonal variations, peaking in the summer months. From January to April, the UV index escalates from 10 to a maximum of 13, categorizing these months as having a very high to extreme risk of sun exposure. The high-risk months, particularly from May to September, peak in August with an index of 14, indicating an extreme risk level where the burn time is reduced to just 10 minutes. Even in October, the UV remains high at 11, emphasizing continued caution. During the later months, November and December, while the index drops back to 9, the exposure category remains very high, allowing for a burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should take precautionary measures throughout the year, with heightened vigilance during the summer months by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours to maintain skin health and safety.
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 |
| Absouya | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 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 |