UV Index in Gao, Mali

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Gao, Mali, is essential for protecting your skin and health under the sun. With the local climate categorized as BWh, residents and visitors alike face high UV exposure risks, particularly during midday when the index peaks at an intense 11. By monitoring UV levels, you can take essential steps to prevent sunburn and minimize long-term skin damage. Awareness of these changing levels, especially between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, when the index reaches up to 10, empowers you to enjoy the beautiful Malian sun safely while safeguarding your skin’s health.

Hourly UV Index in Gao

At dawn, the UV Index starts off low at 1 by 7:00 AM, but as the day unfolds, it quickly rises. By 10:00 AM, it hits 8, reaching peak intensity at noon with an index of 11. As the afternoon progresses, the UV levels begin to drop, stabilizing at 10 shortly after noon before gently declining to 5 by 3:00 PM. The sun’s influence wanes further as evening approaches, tapering down to 1 by 5:00 PM and finally dissipating to 0 by 7:00 PM. This fluctuation highlights the importance of sun protection during peak hours, especially between 10 AM and 2 PM when UV exposure is at its highest.

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	3	moderate	30 min
09:00	5	moderate	30 min
10:00	8	very high	15 min
11:00	10	very high	15 min
12:00	11	extreme	10 min
13:00	10	very high	15 min
14:00	8	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Gao

Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal fluctuations, peaking from March to September with extreme levels that necessitate careful sun exposure management. High-risk months include March, April, July, and August, where the UV Index reaches extremes of 11 to 13, indicating a recommended burn time of just 10 minutes for unprotected skin. Conversely, the burn time increases to 15 minutes during the very high months of January, February, October, and November, when the UV Index ranges from 9 to 10. To ensure safety, visitors and residents are strongly advised to limit sun exposure during peak hours and to use appropriate sun protection measures, such as sunscreen and protective clothing, especially in the months of highest UV intensity.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Gao, Mali

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Gao. 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 Gao, 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 Gao UV Index with Other Mali Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Gao 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.

Gao'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
Gao	9	10	11	13	12	11	13	13	12	10	10	9
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 UVI	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