UV Index in Cape Coast, Ghana

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Cape Coast, Ghana, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful radiation. Being aware of UV levels helps prevent sunburn and promotes long-term skin health. The coastal city enjoys a tropical climate, marked by strong sunlight, particularly during peak hours when UV indexes can reach a scorching 13. With such intense exposure risks, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen can make all the difference in your outdoor experiences. Stay informed, stay safe!

Hourly UV Index in Cape Coast

As the sun rises over the horizon, the UV Index starts at a gentle 1 at 07:00, gradually increasing as the day unfolds. By 09:00, it reaches a moderate 6, prompting sun seekers to take note. The intensity peaks at 12:00 with a striking 13, marking the sun’s zenith, before slowly declining throughout the afternoon. At 13:00, it sits at 11, and by 15:00, it drops to 5, signaling a more manageable exposure for those outdoors. The sun begins to retreat, and by 17:00, the index falls back to 1, finally settling at 0 by 19:00, as evening approaches. This hourly dance of the UV Index not only highlights the day's sunlit energy but also serves as a reminder for sun safety throughout the day.

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	6	high	25 min
10:00	9	very high	15 min
11:00	12	extreme	10 min
12:00	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	11	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

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