Last updated: June 2, 2025
Awareness of the UV Index is crucial in Bamako, Mali, where the sun's intensity can pose significant health risks. Understanding UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health, especially in a region characterized by an Aw climate that brings hot, sunny days and high UV exposure. With peak UV Index values reaching up to 13 around midday, residents and visitors must stay informed to safeguard against the harmful effects of excessive sun exposure. Knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen can make all the difference in enjoying the warm climate while keeping your skin safe and healthy.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts at a gentle 1 by 7:00 AM, perfect for early risers enjoying the fresh morning air. By 9:00 AM, it escalates to a moderate 5, signaling it's time to think about sun protection. The peak arrives at 12:00 PM, when the index hits a scorching 13, marking the sun’s most aggressive rays. For the next hour, it remains at this intense level before gradually declining through the afternoon: 11 at 1:00 PM, 8 at 3:00 PM, and finally down to 4 by 4:00 PM. As the sun sets, the UV Index drops to a safe 1 by 6:00 PM, then to a calming 0 by 7:00 PM, inviting a warm evening to unwind. Enjoy the day, but remember to shield yourself during those peak hours!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index exhibits a significant seasonal pattern, with the highest readings occurring from August to September, where it reaches 14, classified as extreme exposure, resulting in a dangerously low burn time of just 10 minutes. The months of February through July also feature extreme levels of UV radiation, necessitating caution as burn times remain around 10 minutes. As the year progresses into November and December, the UV Index drops slightly to 9 and 10, respectively, still categorized as very high, with a somewhat longer burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during the high-risk months, especially from February to September. It is essential to wear protective clothing, use high-SPF sunscreen, and seek shade during peak sun hours to minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Mopti UVI | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 9 |
Segou UVI | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 10 | 9 |
Bamako | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 11 | 10 | 9 |
Koutiala UVI | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 10 |
Sikasso UVI | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 10 |