UV Index in Accra, Ghana

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Accra, Ghana, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. Understanding the daily fluctuations in UV levels can help you effectively prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage, especially during the intense midday hours when the UV Index soars to a staggering 12. With Accra's tropical savanna climate, residents and visitors alike face significant risks from sun exposure throughout the year. This awareness not only empowers you to enjoy the beautiful outdoors safely but also promotes a healthier lifestyle under the Ghanaian sun. Stay informed, stay protected!

Hourly UV Index in Accra

At 07:00, the UV Index starts with a mild rating of 1, making it safe for morning activities. However, as the sun rises, it quickly gains intensity, peaking at a striking 12 by 12:00—the highest point of the day. The sun’s rays are strongest between 10:00 and 13:00, with a critical UV level of 11 at 11:00. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to wane, dropping to 8 by 14:00, and further declining to 5 by 15:00. By 17:00, the UV Index decreases to a safer 1, paving the way for evening activities under less harsh sunlight. As night falls, the UV activity fades to 0 at 19:00, offering a gentle reminder of the sun's powerful presence during 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.
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	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Accra

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 Accra, Ghana

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Accra. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Accra, 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 Accra UV Index with Other Ghana Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Accra 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.

Accra's solar exposure compared to other cities in Ghana. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Accra	10	11	12	14	13	12	11	12	12	12	10	9
Atsiaman 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
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