Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Bitam, Gabon is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With its tropical climate, Bitam experiences significant sun exposure, especially during midday hours when UV levels can soar to as high as 11. Being aware of these levels helps residents and visitors alike protect themselves from harmful rays that can lead to serious skin issues over time. By monitoring the UV Index and taking appropriate precautions, you can enjoy the vibrant outdoors of Bitam while safeguarding your skin against the sun's potent effects.
The UV Index for the day presents a clear picture of sun intensity, starting off gentle in the early hours. At 7:00 AM, it begins at a mild 1, increasing to 2 by 8:00 AM. As the sun rises higher, the index climbs rapidly; by 10:00 AM, it reaches 7 and peaks at an intense 11 around 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM. After this zenith, the levels gradually decline, dropping to 9 by 2:00 PM, 6 at 3:00 PM, and settling back to a safe 1 by 5:00 PM. The UV exposure diminishes further, reaching a low of 0 by 7:00 PM. Stay protected during those 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 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 11 | 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index remains consistently high, ranging from 11 to 15, indicating an extreme exposure category. The most critical months for UV exposure are March to May, when the UV Index peaks at 15, signaling a burn time of just 10 minutes. Even in the summer months of June and July, the burn time remains dangerously short. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautionary measures, such as applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours to prevent harmful skin damage. Stay vigilant, as UV radiation can cause adverse effects year-round!
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 |
Bitam | 12 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 |
Oyem UVI | 12 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 11 |