Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Swedru, Ghana, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful ultraviolet rays. With the region's Aw climate, which is characterized by warm temperatures and significant sun exposure, being aware of UV levels can help you prevent sunburn and promote overall skin health. The UV Index in Swedru peaks at an intense 13 during midday hours, indicating a severe risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By monitoring these levels, residents and visitors can enjoy the sunshine safely, ensuring a healthy balance in their outdoor experiences.
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.
| 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, particularly peaking during the spring and summer months. Notably, from February to October, the UV Index consistently falls within the extreme category, with March and April recording the highest levels at 12 and 14, respectively. The months of March, April, May, June, July, August, and September are high-risk periods where the burn time is notably low, typically around 10 minutes. Consequently, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to exercise caution during these months. We recommend applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours to minimize the risk of skin damage. As a reminder, while UV levels decrease in November and December, they still remain at very high levels, underscoring the need for continued sun protection year-round.
UV Risk Categories
| 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 |
| Swedru | 10 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 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 |