UV Index in Buea, Cameroon

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Buea, Cameroon, where the tropical climate combines with high solar exposure to create significant UV radiation risks. Awareness of UV levels is essential not only for preventing sunburn but also for safeguarding your overall skin health. With values skyrocketing to 12 during midday hours, Buea's unique weather patterns heighten the importance of protective measures against harmful sun rays. By staying informed about the daily UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors while keeping your skin safe from potential damage.

Hourly UV Index in Buea

The UV Index for the day illustrates a clear pattern of rising intensity as the sun climbs higher in the sky. Starting at 1 at 7:00 AM, the index gradually climbs to 2 by 8:00 AM, signaling the start of a moderately low UV risk. By 9:00 AM, it hits 4, marking the onset of more noticeable sun exposure. The sun reaches its zenith at 12:00 PM, where the UV index peaks at an intense 12—a critical time for sun safety. As afternoon gives way to evening, the index begins to decline, dropping to 6 by 3:00 PM and sinking to a gentle 1 by 5:00 PM. Finally, by 7:00 PM, the UV threat diminishes entirely, with a reading of 0. A day's journey through UV risk highlights the importance of protection during those midday hours!

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	2	low	45 min
09:00	4	moderate	30 min
10:00	8	very high	15 min
11:00	11	extreme	10 min
12:00	12	extreme	10 min
13:00	11	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 Buea

The UV Index exhibits notably high levels throughout the year, particularly from January to October, where it consistently falls within the extreme exposure category. The highest readings occur in April (15) and May (13), marking these months as particularly high-risk for sunburn, with a recommended burn time of just 10 minutes across most months. December sees a slight decrease to a very high index of 10, allowing for a longer exposure time of 15 minutes. Residents and visitors are advised to take precautions year-round, including wearing protective clothing, utilizing sunscreen, and seeking shade, especially during these high-risk months when the UV levels can pose a significant threat to skin health.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Buea, Cameroon

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Buea 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.

Buea'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
Buea	11	12	12	15	13	12	11	12	13	12	11	10
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 UVI	12	13	14	14	14	13	13	13	13	13	12	11