Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Booué, Gabon, especially given the area's tropical climate which presents unique challenges related to sun exposure. Knowledge of UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and maintaining skin health, as harmful rays can lead to serious long-term effects. During peak hours, particularly between noon and 1 PM, the UV Index can reach extreme levels of 11, signaling a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By being aware of these levels, you can take proactive steps to enjoy the sun safely while protecting your skin from potential damage.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dynamic pattern, peaking sharply during midday hours. At 07:00, the index starts low at 1, indicating minimal risk. As the sun rises, it climbs to 2 at 08:00 and rapidly escalates to 4 by 09:00. By 10:00, the intensity reaches 7, but the real intensity hits at 12:00 with a maximum of 11, signifying a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Though it dips slightly to 10 at 13:00, the index begins to retreat, dropping to 8 at 14:00, followed by a more gradual decrease to 5 at 15:00. As the sun sets, the index falls to 3 by 16:00, and then drops to 1 by 17:00, settling at a low 0 by 19:00. This data serves as a vital reminder for sun safety, especially during peak hours!
| 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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | 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 |
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 |