Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Koforidua, Ghana is essential for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn, particularly in this region where the climate is characterized as Aw, featuring high temperatures and ample sunshine year-round. With UV levels peaking at 12 during midday hours, it’s crucial for residents and visitors alike to stay informed about these changes to minimize harmful exposure. By being aware of the UV Index, you can better protect yourself and your loved ones from the short-term and long-term risks associated with UV radiation, ensuring that your outdoor activities in Koforidua remain enjoyable and safe.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index begins its climb, starting at a modest 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it rises to 3, signaling that sunlight is becoming more potent. But the real intensity hits around 10:00, with the index soaring to 9, peaking at 12 by 12:00. This midday sun delivers the highest UV radiation, reaching its zenith at 11 by 11:00. Afterward, the index begins its descent, dropping to 9 at 14:00, before tapering off to 5 by 15:00, and dwindling to 3 at 16:00. By evening, the UV levels return to 1 at 17:00, and fade to 0 by 19:00, wrapping up a significant day under the sun. Stay protected during those peak hours when UV exposure is at its highest!
| 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 | 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 |