Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Koumra, Chad, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors alike, especially considering the region's Aw climate which is characterized by intense sun exposure, particularly during peak hours. Understanding UV levels is essential not only for preventing sunburn but also for promoting long-term skin health—an often overlooked aspect of outdoor activities in the sun. With UV Index values frequently soaring to a maximum of 13 around noon, it’s vital to stay informed and take protective measures to safeguard your skin against harmful ultraviolet rays.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins subtly, peaking at 1 by 7:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it climbs to a moderate level of 6, increasing to a striking 10 at 10:00 AM. At 11:00 AM, the intensity reaches its zenith with a sharp 12, and by 12:00 PM, it hits a scorching 13. The afternoon witnesses a gradual decline, with UV levels dropping to 12 by 1:00 PM, followed by a swift descent to 9 at 2:00 PM and further down to 5 by 3:00 PM. As the day winds down, UV exposure diminishes, falling to 3 at 4:00 PM, and finally settling back to 1 by 5:00 PM. The UV index ends the day at 0 by 7:00 PM, signaling a safe retreat from sun exposure. This hourly fluctuation highlights the importance of sun safety, especially during peak hours when UV radiation is at its most intense.
| 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 | 10 | 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 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, UV Index levels exhibit significant fluctuations, peaking in the summer months. January through May show extreme exposure levels, with consistent UV Index readings of 11 to 13, necessitating vigorous sun protection. June to October continues this trend, with August and September marking the highest UV Index at 14, indicating an urgent need for protective measures. November and December see a slight reduction to a very high UV Index of 10, allowing for 15 minutes of burn time. Visitors and residents should remain vigilant, particularly from March to September, when the risk of UV exposure is at its worst; wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours is highly recommended to minimize risks of skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Abeche UVI | 10 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 9 | 9 |
| N'Djamena UVI | 10 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 10 | 9 |
| Sarh UVI | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 10 |
| Moundou UVI | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 10 |
| Koumra | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 10 |
| Kelo UVI | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 10 |