Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Sangmelima, Cameroon, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With a tropical climate characterized by a high risk of UV exposure, understanding daily UV levels can help you take necessary precautions, especially during peak hours. On sunny days, UV Index values peak between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, reaching levels as high as 13, which poses significant health risks. By staying informed, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors while safeguarding your skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet rays.
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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index remains notably high, consistently categorizing as extreme with potential burn times capped at just 10 minutes across all months. The high-risk months are particularly from March to May, peaking in April with a UV Index of 15. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to practice sun safety measures year-round, which include wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, as well as seeking shade, especially during midday hours. It is crucial to remain vigilant about UV exposure, given the heightened levels throughout all months.
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 |
Sangmelima | 12 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 |
Bamenda UVI | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 |