UV Index in Yaounde, Cameroon

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Yaoundé, Cameroon, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With high UV levels, particularly during the peak sunlight hours, understanding these risks can help prevent painful sunburns and long-term skin damage. The Aw climate of Yaoundé, characterized by warm temperatures and significant sunlight throughout the year, means residents and visitors alike must take preventative measures against excessive UV exposure. From 10 AM to 1 PM, the UV Index often reaches alarming heights, peaking at 13—signifying a very high danger level for unprotected skin. By being aware and proactive, individuals can enjoy the beauty of Yaoundé while safeguarding their skin from harmful effects.

Hourly UV Index in Yaounde

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.

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	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Yaounde

Seasonal UV changes indicate that UV Index values remain consistently high, ranging from 11 to 15 throughout the year, with the highest levels occurring from April to June. During these months, all have an extreme exposure category and a burn time of just 10 minutes, putting both visitors and residents at significant risk for skin damage. February and April record the highest indices at 12 and 15, respectively. To minimize exposure, individuals are advised to take protective measures year-round, especially during these high-risk months—from March to September—such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and limiting outdoor activities during peak sunlight hours.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Yaounde, Cameroon

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Yaounde. 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 Yaounde, 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 Yaounde UV Index with Other Cameroon Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Yaounde 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.

Yaounde'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
Yaounde	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