UV Index in Sokolo, Mali

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Sokolo, Mali is crucial for safeguarding skin health and preventing sunburn, especially in a region characterized by its hot semi-arid climate (BSh). With peak UV levels reaching as high as 12 around midday, knowing how to adjust sun exposure can make a significant difference in protecting against harmful UV radiation. By monitoring these levels throughout the day, residents and visitors can enjoy outdoor activities while minimizing risks associated with prolonged sun exposure. Stay informed and take proactive steps to shield your skin from the intense sun!

Hourly UV Index in Sokolo

The UV Index starts off low at 1 around 07:00, gradually rising to a moderate 2 by 08:00. As the sun reaches its peak, the index sharply escalates, hitting 8 at 10:00 and peaking at a striking 12 between 12:00 and 13:00. This intense solar exposure signals a strong need for protection, especially with the index maintaining an elevated 11 at 11:00 before beginning a gradual decline. By 14:00, it drops to 9, then further down to 6 at 15:00, and continues to fall, reaching 1 by 17:00. As the evening approaches, the UV levels taper off to 0 by 19:00, indicating a complete cessation of harmful UV exposure. Stay savvy and prioritize sun safety during those peak hours!

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	12	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Sokolo

The UV Index fluctuates significantly throughout the year, with the highest risk months being March through October, where the index peaks at 14 in August and remains at extreme levels of 12-13 for most of this period, indicating a burn time of only 10 minutes for unprotected skin. January, February, November, and December still pose a risk with very high levels, where the burn time increases slightly to 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should exercise caution during these high-UV months by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to minimize the risk of skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Sokolo, Mali

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Sokolo 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.

Sokolo'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
Sokolo	9	10	12	13	12	12	13	14	13	12	10	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