Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Wa, Ghana, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. As a city with an Aw climate, residents often experience high UV exposure, particularly during peak hours when the index can soar to 12—a level that significantly increases the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. By staying informed about daily UV levels, you can make safer choices and enjoy outdoor activities without compromising your well-being. Being aware of the UV Index not only helps in sunburn prevention but also promotes healthier skin in the long run. Stay vigilant and protect yourself under the blazing sun!
The UV Index peaks dramatically during the midday hours, reaching its maximum of 12 at 12:00 PM. Early in the day, from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM, the index starts low at just 1, climbing steadily to 3 by 8:00 AM. As the sun rises higher, it aggressively escalates to 8 at 10:00 AM and hits a sweltering 11 by 11:00 AM. After noon, there is a slight decline, with the index falling to 9 at 2:00 PM, then tapering down to 5 and 3 by the late afternoon hours. The day transitions to diminished UV levels, with the index returning to a safe 1 by 5:00 PM and fading to 0 as the sun sets at 7:00 PM. It's crucial to take protective measures during those peak hours, especially from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, when the sun’s rays are most intense!
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 | 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 | 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 |
The UV Index shows extreme levels from January to October, with highest risk months in August and September, where the UV Index peaks at 14 and burn time is just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should take precautionary measures during these months, including wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing, as well as seeking shade during peak sun hours. Even in November and December, the UV Index remains very high, emphasizing the need for ongoing sun protection throughout the year. Be mindful of your exposure, as even short periods in the sun can lead to skin damage.
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 |
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 |
Wa | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 9 |