UV Index in Bafia, Cameroon

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial in Bafia, Cameroon, where the combination of a tropical climate and high sun exposure can lead to significant skin health risks. As UV levels often peak during midday, being aware of these fluctuations helps residents and visitors alike to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. In Bafia, where the sun can shine intensely, especially from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, it's essential to take precautions when the UV Index soars to hazardous levels of 11 and 13. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the outdoors while protecting your skin from harmful rays.

Hourly UV Index in Bafia

The UV Index presents a dynamic story throughout the day, beginning with a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, ideal for a morning stroll. As the sun rises, the intensity increases, hitting 3 by 8:00 AM and reaching 5 at 9:00 AM—a sign that sunscreen should start making an appearance. The peak comes between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, soaring to a striking 11 and then a maximum of 13 at noon, signaling a time when direct sun exposure can be particularly harmful. A gradual decline follows, with the index dropping to 9 by 2:00 PM, and easing back to 1 as evening approaches, reminding us to seek shade during the hottest hours. As the day winds down, the index concludes at 0 by 7:00 PM, inviting a leisurely night's rest.

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
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	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Bafia

The UV Index consistently remains high throughout the year, with values ranging from 10 to 14 in the extreme exposure category from January to October. March and April mark the peak months for UV exposure, with an index of 13 and 14, respectively, both indicating a burn time of just 10 minutes. Even in the cooler months, such as November and December, the UV index remains significant, with 11 and 10, and a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes in December. It is crucial for both visitors and residents to take precautions, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, particularly during the high-risk months of March to October. Always heed UV warnings and limit sun exposure during peak hours to maintain skin health.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Bafia, Cameroon

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Bafia. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Bafia, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Bafia UV Index with Other Cameroon Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Bafia compares to other major locations across Cameroon. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Bafia's solar exposure compared to other cities in Cameroon. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Douala UVI	10	11	12	14	13	11	11	12	12	12	11	10
Kousseri UVI	10	12	13	12	12	12	13	13	13	11	10	9
Garoua UVI	11	12	12	13	13	12	13	13	14	12	10	10
Bafia	11	12	13	14	13	12	11	12	13	12	11	10
Yaounde UVI	11	12	13	15	13	12	11	12	13	13	11	11
Bamenda UVI	12	13	14	14	14	13	13	13	13	13	12	11