Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Akwatia, Ghana, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin health. The intense sun exposure characteristic of the Aw climate zone means that understanding UV levels is vital not just for preventing painful sunburns but also for reducing long-term skin damage. With UV Index readings peaking at 12 around midday, it’s essential for residents and visitors alike to take precautions during those hours to minimize risks. By staying informed, you can enjoy the sunshine while effectively protecting your skin!
As the day unfolds, the UV Index rises significantly, reaching its peak at 12:00 PM with an impressive value of 12. Beginning the day at a manageable 1 at 07:00 AM, the index gradually climbs, hitting 11 by 11:00 AM and maintaining a strong 11 until 1:00 PM. Following this midday zenith, the UV levels begin to decline, dipping to 9 at 2:00 PM and further down to 6 by 3:00 PM. The late afternoon sees a gentle fall, as the index hovers back to 3 at 4:00 PM and eventually settles at 1 by 5:00 PM, wrapping up the day with no UV exposure at 7:00 PM. For those planning outdoor activities, the hours around noon present the highest risk, making protective measures essential during this sunny stretch!
| 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 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 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 exhibits significant seasonal changes, with the highest values typically occurring from March to September. The peak UV Index is reached in April at 14, indicating an extreme risk for skin damage, while January through July consistently maintain an extreme exposure category with an index of 11-14. The months of March, April, May, June, July, August, and September are particularly high-risk months, where the burn time is notably low at just 10 minutes. As we transition into November and December, the UV threat decreases slightly, presenting a very high exposure category, with burn times extending to 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take necessary precautions, such as applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours to mitigate the risk of UV-related skin damage. Stay vigilant, especially during the higher-index months!
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 |
| Akwatia | 11 | 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 |