Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents of Booué, Gabon, as it plays a crucial role in protecting skin health and preventing sunburn. With peak UV levels reaching a significant 10 around midday, awareness about fluctuations in UV exposure can help individuals take necessary precautions. Given Booué's Aw climate, characterized by warm temperatures and sunny days, it's vital to be informed about daily UV index readings to reduce the risks associated with harmful sun exposure. By keeping track of these levels, you can enjoy the outdoors while safeguarding your skin against potential damage.
As the sun rises, the UV Index gradually climbs, beginning at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it reaches 2, indicating an increase in exposure, but it’s from 9:00 AM that the intensity truly ramps up, hitting a moderate 4. The peak occurs at 12:00 PM, where the index soars to an impressive 10, signaling a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Following this peak, the UV Index begins to gently descend, dropping to 9 at 1:00 PM and then gradually tapering off to 5 by 3:00 PM. As the afternoon wanes, the values decrease steadily, leaving a comfortable 1 by 5:00 PM, and finally settling at 0 by 7:00 PM. It’s a clear reminder that while the midday sun can be mighty, the late afternoon offers a more forgiving vibe for outdoor activities.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index experiences significant seasonal fluctuations, with the highest levels occurring during the first half of the year. From January to May, the UV Index ranges between 12 and 14, categorized as extreme, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. The months of February and March show peak indices, reaching 13 and 14, respectively. As temperatures rise, June and July see a slight reduction to 10 (very high exposure), allowing for a burn time of 15 minutes. However, the extreme levels return from August to November, with UV Index values at 12 to 13 and consistent burn times of 10 minutes. Consequently, January through May and August through November are considered high-risk months for UV exposure. Visitors and residents should take precautionary measures, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, particularly during these critical periods to ensure their safety against harmful UV radiation.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Libreville UVI | 12 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 11 |
| Port-Gentil UVI | 12 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 9 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 |
| Franceville UVI | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 |
| Moanda UVI | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 |
| Booue | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 12 |
| Oyem UVI | 12 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 11 |