UV Index in Niamey, Niger

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Niamey, Niger, as it directly affects sun safety and skin health. With the sun reaching its peak intensity in the heart of the Sahel, awareness of UV levels can help prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. The typical BSh climate in Niamey brings intense sunlight, especially from late morning to early afternoon, where the UV Index can soar as high as 12. By staying informed about these levels, you can better protect yourself and enjoy the beautiful Nigerien sun responsibly.

Hourly UV Index in Niamey

The UV Index throughout the day presents a clear rise and fall pattern, peaking at 12:00 PM with a striking UV index of 11. The morning starts gentle, with readings at 07:00 AM and 08:00 AM barely hitting 1 and 2, indicating minimal risk for sun exposure. As the clock ticks, the intensity gradually escalates, hitting 9 by 11:00 AM and soaring to its maximum at 12:00 PM. After that high point, it begins to wane, dropping to 8 at 3:00 PM, before swiftly declining to 1 by 6:00 PM. This data underscores the importance of protecting your skin during peak hours—particularly from noon to early afternoon, when the sun’s rays are at their most potent.

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	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	6	high	25 min
11:00	9	very high	15 min
12:00	11	extreme	10 min
13:00	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	11	extreme	10 min
15:00	8	very high	15 min
16:00	5	moderate	30 min
17:00	2	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Niamey

The UV Index demonstrates notable seasonal changes, with the highest readings occurring from March to September, categorized as extreme with a consistent index of 12 to 13 and a burn time of just 10 minutes. The high-risk months clearly include February through October, where exposure can lead to significant skin damage in a short period. In contrast, January, November, and December exhibit slightly lower indices, categorized as very high, with burn times extending to 15 minutes. To safeguard against UV exposure, visitors and residents should prioritize wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sun hours, especially during the extreme months.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Niamey, Niger

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

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

Niamey's solar exposure compared to other cities in Niger. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Alaghsas UVI	9	10	11	13	12	12	11	12	11	10	9	8
Agadez UVI	9	10	11	13	12	12	11	12	11	10	9	8
Maradi UVI	10	11	13	12	11	11	13	13	12	11	10	10
Niamey	10	12	13	12	11	12	13	13	12	11	10	9
Zinder UVI	10	11	13	13	12	12	13	13	12	11	10	10