UV Index in Bamako, Mali

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Bamako, Mali is crucial for safeguarding your skin against the sun's harmful rays. With peak UV levels often reaching as high as 13 between noon and 1 PM, awareness of these fluctuations can help prevent painful sunburn and promote long-term skin health. Bamako, characterized by its Aw climate, experiences significant UV exposure throughout the year, making it essential for residents and visitors alike to stay informed and take proactive measures to protect themselves. By regularly checking the UV index, you can enjoy the sunny beauty of Bamako while minimizing your risk of skin damage.

Hourly UV Index in Bamako

As the sun rises, the UV Index starts modestly at 1 at 07:00, indicating minimal risk. By 09:00, it climbs to a moderate 5, encouraging outdoor enthusiasts to take precautions. The peak emerges around 12:00, hitting a noticeably high 13, and remains intense until 14:00 when it slightly dips to 11. As the afternoon wanes, the index gradually decreases; by 15:00, it falls to 7, and as evening approaches, it continues its decline to 2 at 17:00. Finally, the UV Index settles at 1 by 18:00, ultimately dipping to a safe 0 by 19:00. It's a day where midday sun protection is paramount!

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.
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	7	high	25 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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Bamako

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Bamako, Mali

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Bamako. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Bamako, 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 Bamako UV Index with Other Mali Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Bamako compares to other major locations across Mali. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Bamako's solar exposure compared to other cities in Mali. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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