UV Index in Bamenda, Cameroon

Last updated: May 3, 2025

The UV Index in Bamenda, Cameroon highlights the critical need for UV awareness in a region known for its vibrant climate. Understanding UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health, particularly as Bamenda experiences high UV exposure, especially from late morning to early afternoon. With readings soaring to UV Index levels of 14 at noon, residents and visitors must stay vigilant to mitigate the risks associated with direct sunlight. Stay informed and safeguard your skin while enjoying the beautiful Aw climate that Bamenda has to offer!

Hourly UV Index in Bamenda

The UV Index (UVI) for the day paints a vivid picture of sun intensity, rising steadily as the hours progress. Starting at a mild 1 at 07:00, it quickly escalates to a moderate 3 by 08:00. As the sun climbs higher, the UVI reaches a significant 6 at 09:00 and hits its peak at 12:00 with a blazing 14. The intensity begins to wane after 13:00, slipping to 10 by 14:00, and gradually dropping to 7 at 15:00. As the sun starts to set, the UVI cools off, returning to a 1 at 17:00 and trailing down to 0 by 19:00. This pattern emphasizes the importance of sun safety during the prime hours when the UV exposure is the 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	6	high	25 min
10:00	9	very high	15 min
11:00	12	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Bamenda

The UV Index in this region displays extreme levels year-round, with values peaking at 14 from March to May. High-risk months include March through May, where sun exposure can lead to burns in just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautionary measures during these months, such as wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen liberally, and seeking shade during peak hours. Even in the winter months, especially January through March, the UV Index remains high, so vigilance is essential to prevent skin damage throughout the year.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Bamenda, Cameroon

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Bamenda 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.

Bamenda'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 UVI	11	12	13	15	13	12	11	12	13	13	11	11
Bamenda	12	13	14	14	14	13	13	13	13	13	12	11