Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Esse, Cameroon, where the tropical Aw climate brings both vibrant sunshine and potential health risks. With UV levels frequently peaking at 13 between noon and 1 PM, being aware of these fluctuations can help protect against sunburn and long-term skin damage. By keeping an eye on daily UV exposure, locals can enjoy the outdoors while safeguarding their skin’s health against the intensified rays typical of the region. Stay informed and protect yourself from the sun's powerful effects!
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off low at 1 by 7:00 AM, gradually climbing to a moderate 3 by 8:00 AM. The intensity peaks at 12:00 PM with a striking 13, signaling a high level of UV exposure. As the day progresses, the index then begins its descent, dropping from 12 at 1:00 PM to 9 by 2:00 PM, before tapering off to 6 at 3:00 PM. The evening brings a soothing decline, returning to a safe 1 by 5:00 PM and settling at 0 by 7:00 PM. For optimal protection, it's best to limit sun exposure during the peak hours of 10 AM to 2 PM when UV levels are at their highest.
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 | 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 extreme levels from January through October, peaking in April at a UV Index of 15, indicating a significant risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Notably, the high-risk months are from February to August, where the UV Index remains consistently at 12 or above, with only a slight decrease in July. Visitors and residents should take precautions during these months, including wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to prevent sunburn, which can occur in as little as 10 minutes of exposure. While November and December see a slight reduction in UV strength, maintaining protective measures is still advisable, especially with the very high category in December.
UV Risk Categories
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 |
Yaounde UVI | 11 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 11 |
Esse | 12 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 10 |
Bamenda UVI | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 |