Last updated: August 1, 2025
Staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for residents of Koforidua, Ghana, where the warm Aw climate often leaves individuals susceptible to high ultraviolet radiation levels. Understanding UV levels not only helps in sunburn prevention but also plays a vital role in maintaining overall skin health. With peak UV Index values soaring to 11 during midday, it's essential for the community to remain vigilant about sun safety practices to mitigate risks and enjoy the beautiful tropical environment without compromising their well-being.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts its ascent, peaking at 11 between noon and 1 PM, indicating an extremely high level of solar radiation. Morning hours see a gradual increase from 1 at 7 AM to a brisk 5 by 9 AM. By 10 AM, it spikes to 8, making sun protection essential for those heading outdoors. The midday sun brings the highest exposure, so it's crucial to seek shade and wear sunscreen from 11 AM onwards. As the afternoon progresses, the index starts to decline, dropping to 3 by 4 PM and back to a safe 1 by 5 PM, ensuring a gentle decline into the evening. By 7 PM, the UV threat virtually disappears, marking a clear end to the day's peak exposure hours. Stay savvy and sun-safe!
| 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 |
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 |
| Koforidua | 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 |