UV Index in Kourou, French Guiana

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for staying safe under the sun in Kourou, French Guiana. With its tropical climate and high UV exposure levels, particularly during midday when readings can soar to 13, awareness of UV risks can help you protect your skin from painful sunburns and long-term health issues. By keeping an eye on daily UV levels, residents and visitors can make informed choices about sun protection, such as applying sunscreen or seeking shade. As you explore this vibrant locale, remember that even on a seemingly mild day, the UV Index can fluctuate dramatically, making it essential to prioritize your skin's health.

Hourly UV Index in Kourou

As the sun rises, the UV Index starts modestly at 1 at 07:00, indicating minimal risk. By 09:00, it climbs to a moderate 5, encouraging outdoor enthusiasts to take precautions. The peak emerges around 12:00, hitting a noticeably high 13, and remains intense until 14:00 when it slightly dips to 11. As the afternoon wanes, the index gradually decreases; by 15:00, it falls to 7, and as evening approaches, it continues its decline to 2 at 17:00. Finally, the UV Index settles at 1 by 18:00, ultimately dipping to a safe 0 by 19:00. It's a day where midday sun protection is paramount!

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	5	moderate	30 min
10:00	8	very high	15 min
11:00	11	extreme	10 min
12:00	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	13	extreme	10 min
14:00	11	extreme	10 min
15:00	7	high	25 min
16:00	4	moderate	30 min
17:00	2	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Kourou

Throughout the year, extreme UV levels persist in this region, with the highest UV Index recorded from February to April, peaking at 16. March and April are particularly noteworthy for their elevated risk, as average burn time remains consistent at just 10 minutes across months. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautionary measures during these high-risk months, including wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours. The consistent extreme exposure category across the year underscores the need for heightened awareness and protection against harmful UV radiation.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Kourou, French Guiana

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Kourou compares to other major locations across French Guiana. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Kourou's solar exposure compared to other cities in French Guiana. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Matoury UVI	13	14	16	16	14	13	12	13	13	13	13	12
Remire-Montjoly UVI	13	14	16	16	14	13	12	13	13	13	13	12
Cayenne UVI	13	14	16	16	14	13	12	13	13	13	13	12
Kourou	13	14	16	16	14	13	12	13	13	13	13	12
Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni UVI	13	14	16	15	14	13	12	13	13	13	13	11