UV Index in Elmina, Ghana

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Elmina, Ghana, where the tropical Aw climate brings intense sunlight and high UV exposure throughout the year. Being aware of UV levels not only helps prevent painful sunburns but also plays a significant role in maintaining long-term skin health. With daily UV Index peaks reaching as high as 13 around noon, it's vital to recognize these risks and take appropriate precautions to protect yourself while enjoying the natural beauty and historical charm of this coastal town.

Hourly UV Index in Elmina

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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:003moderate30 min
09:006high25 min
10:009very high15 min
11:0012extreme10 min
12:0013extreme10 min
13:0011extreme10 min
14:009very high15 min
15:005moderate30 min
16:003moderate30 min
17:001low45 min
18:001low45 min
19:000low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Elmina

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 Elmina, Ghana

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Elmina. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec10111214131211121212109
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Elmina, 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 Elmina UV Index with Other Ghana Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Elmina 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.
Elmina's solar exposure compared to other cities in Ghana. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Atsiaman UVI10111214131211121212109
Accra UVI10111214131211121212109
Takoradi UVI10111214131211121212109
Elmina10111214131211121212109
Kumasi UVI10111214131312121312109
Tamale UVI10111213121313131312109