Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Douentza, Mali, staying aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and maintaining overall health. Understanding UV levels is essential as exposure to high UV rays can lead to sunburn, premature aging, and increased risk of skin cancer. Douentza's BWh climate means that residents and visitors often face intense sun exposure, especially during the midday hours when the UV Index peaks at an alarming 13. By monitoring the UV Index, individuals can take proactive steps to shield themselves from harmful rays, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable time outdoors.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts its slow climb, peaking at 13 between noon and 1 PM, signaling extreme UV exposure. The day begins gently at 7 AM with a minimal index of 1, but by 10 AM, it reaches 9, urging sun-sensitive individuals to seek protection. The highest reading of 13 persists for two hours, making midday the most critical time for sun safety. As the afternoon rolls in, the index gradually decreases, dipping to 7 by 3 PM, and further waning into the evening with values of 4 at 4 PM, 2 at 5 PM, and falling to a comfortable 1 by 6 PM. Finally, the UV Index settles at 0 after sunset, marking the end of a sun-drenched day.
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 | 12 | 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 |
The seasonal UV index displays significant fluctuations throughout the year, with high-risk months primarily occurring from February to October, where the UV index consistently reaches extreme levels of 11 or higher. During this time, particularly from March to September, the UV index peaks at 12 or 13, resulting in a burn time of just 10 minutes for unprotected skin. Conversely, the UV index decreases in November and December to 9, categorized as very high, allowing a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during the high-risk months by applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize the risk of skin damage from UV radiation.
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 |
Douentza | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 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 |