Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Kpandu, Ghana is crucial for ensuring your skin health in this warm, Aw climate, where the sun's rays can be intense. High UV levels, particularly around midday, pose significant risks for sunburn and long-term skin damage. With UV Index readings surging to 12 in the early afternoon, it is essential for residents and visitors alike to stay informed about these levels to protect themselves from harmful exposure. By knowing the UV Index, you can make smart choices about sun safety, whether it’s seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, or applying sunscreen during those peak hours.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dynamic rise and fall, with the peak intensity occurring at 12:00 PM, where it reaches a striking value of 12. From the early morning hours, starting at 07:00 AM with a low index of 1, the sun's rays gradually strengthen, climbing to 3 by 08:00 AM and 5 by 09:00 AM. The index then surges to 9 at 10:00 AM, hitting 11 by 11:00 AM. Following its zenith, the index slightly declines to 11 again at 1:00 PM before tapering off to 5 at 3:00 PM. As the day progresses, a gentle descent continues, landing back at 1 by 05:00 PM and leading into the evening hours where it eventually drops to 0 by 07:00 PM. This compelling data reminds us of the importance of sun protection during the midday hours when the 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 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 |
The seasonal UV changes indicate that from January to October, the UV Index remains consistently high, with values reaching a peak of 14 in April. This suggests that the high-risk months for UV exposure are April, May, August, and September, all maintaining a UV Index of 13 or higher, classified as extreme with a burn time of just 10 minutes. As such, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to take necessary precautions, such as wearing sunscreen and protective clothing, especially during these months. In November and December, although the UV Index drops to 10, which is categorized as very high with a burn time of 15 minutes, continued protection from UV exposure is still advisable. Staying informed and vigilant can help mitigate the risks associated with UV radiation 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 |
| 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 |
| Kpandu | 11 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 10 |