UV Index in Tamale, Ghana

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Tamale, Ghana is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With intense sun exposure, especially during peak hours, being aware of UV levels can help prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. Tamale, located in the Aw climate zone, experiences high UV index readings, particularly between 10 AM and 1 PM, when values can soar to 13. This makes it essential for residents and visitors alike to stay informed about UV risks and take necessary precautions to protect themselves from the sun’s harmful rays.

Hourly UV Index in Tamale

As the day unfolds, the UV Index rises dramatically, peaking at 13 around 12:00 PM, signaling a maximum level of sun intensity. Early morning hours start off mild, with a low of 1 at 07:00 and climbing steadily to 6 by 09:00. The sun reaches its zenith at 11:00, with a value of 12, before gradually declining through the afternoon. By 15:00, the index drops to 6, further falling to 3 by 16:00 and finally returning to a safe 1 by 17:00. As twilight approaches, the index settles to 0 after 19:00, providing a serene close to the day. Remember to protect your skin during the peak hours from 10 AM to 2 PM, when the sun's rays are most potent!

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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:003moderate30 min
09:006high25 min
10:009very high15 min
11:0012extreme10 min
12:0013extreme10 min
13:0012extreme10 min
14:009very high15 min
15:006high25 min
16:003moderate30 min
17:001low45 min
18:001low45 min
19:000low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Tamale

The UV Index experiences significant seasonal fluctuations, peaking during the warmer months. From January to March, the UV levels are very high to extreme, with burn times as short as 10-15 minutes. The risk escalates dramatically from April through September, where the UV Index consistently reaches 12-13 and the exposure category is classified as extreme, equating to a burn time of just 10 minutes. High-risk months include February to October, with the extreme UV levels posing a serious threat for sunburn and skin damage. Residents and visitors should take precautions, such as wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during peak sunlight hours. As we move into November and December, the UV levels slightly decrease, though they still remain very high, reminding everyone to stay vigilant year-round.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Tamale, Ghana

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Tamale. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec11111213121313131312109
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Tamale, 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 Tamale UV Index with Other Ghana Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Tamale 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.
Tamale's solar exposure compared to other cities in Ghana. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Atsiaman UVI10111214131211121212109
Accra UVI10111214131211121212109
Takoradi UVI10111214131211121212109
Kumasi UVI10111214131312121312109
Tamale10111213121313131312109