Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Tarkwa, Ghana, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin's health. The UV levels in this region can soar, especially between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, when the index reaches its peak at 13—indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Understanding these UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and reducing the long-term risk of skin damage. Given Tarkwa's tropical climate and typical exposure risks, being aware of the UV index empowers residents and visitors alike to take necessary precautions and enjoy the outdoors safely.
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!
| 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 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 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 exhibits significant seasonal changes, with the highest values typically occurring from March to September. The peak UV Index is reached in April at 14, indicating an extreme risk for skin damage, while January through July consistently maintain an extreme exposure category with an index of 11-14. The months of March, April, May, June, July, August, and September are particularly high-risk months, where the burn time is notably low at just 10 minutes. As we transition into November and December, the UV threat decreases slightly, presenting a very high exposure category, with burn times extending to 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take necessary precautions, such as applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours to mitigate the risk of UV-related skin damage. Stay vigilant, especially during the higher-index months!
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 |
| Tarkwa | 11 | 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 |