UV Index in Cape Coast, Ghana

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Staying aware of the UV Index in Cape Coast, Ghana is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health under the intense tropical sun. Understanding these UV levels enables you to take preventive measures against sunburn and long-term skin damage, especially with peak values reaching 12 around midday. In this Aw climate zone, the risk of exposure is high, with significant UV radiation levels from late morning to early afternoon. By keeping track of the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful beaches and vibrant culture of Cape Coast while safeguarding your skin against harmful rays.

Hourly UV Index in Cape Coast

The UV Index data reveals a dramatic peak in intensity throughout the day. It starts off at a gentle 1 at 07:00, making the morning quite safe for outdoor activities. However, as the sun rises, the index escalates to a striking 12 by noon, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. This midday peak, lasting until 13:00, advises the need for sunscreen and protective clothing. The afternoon sees a gradual decline, with the index sliding back to 5 by 15:00, before tapering off to a safe 1 by evening hours. It’s a day where sun safety measures are crucial during those intense 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	3	moderate	30 min
09:00	5	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	8	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Cape Coast

Throughout the year, UV Index levels exhibit significant seasonal variation, peaking in the spring and summer months. From January to March, UV exposure starts very high to extreme, but it escalates further in April and May with an index of 14 and 13, respectively. The high-risk months from March to October consistently show extreme levels, with burn times as short as 10 minutes throughout this period. Consequently, visitors and residents should take precautionary measures during these months, such as wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak hours, to reduce the risk of harmful UV exposure. As the year progresses into November and December, the UV Index begins to decline, though caution should still be exercised as levels remain very high.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Cape Coast, Ghana

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

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

Cape Coast's solar exposure compared to other cities in Ghana. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Atsiaman UVI	10	11	12	14	13	12	11	12	12	12	10	9
Accra UVI	10	11	12	14	13	12	11	12	12	12	10	9
Takoradi UVI	10	11	12	14	13	12	11	12	12	12	10	9
Cape Coast	10	11	12	14	13	12	11	12	12	12	10	9
Kumasi UVI	10	11	12	14	13	13	12	12	13	12	10	9
Tamale UVI	10	11	12	13	12	13	13	13	13	12	10	9