Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is vital for residents and visitors in Bakau, Gambia, where the Aw climate brings plenty of sunshine year-round. This measurement informs you about the intensity of harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, helping you take protective measures against sunburn and long-term skin health issues. With peak UV levels reaching as high as 12 during midday, awareness of these levels is essential to safeguard your skin while enjoying the beautiful coastal environment. So, whether you're relaxing on the beach or exploring the vibrant local culture, staying informed about the UV Index in Bakau can make all the difference in protecting your health under the sun.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its steady ascent, peaking dramatically during the midday hours. At 07:00 and 08:00, it lingers at a safe 1, making sunscreen unnecessary. However, come 09:00, the index jumps to 3, signaling growing sun intensity. The real surge occurs between 10:00 and 14:00, where the UV Index escalates to a sharp 12 at 13:00—a reminder to seek shade and protect your skin. As the afternoon rolls in, a gradual decline starts, dropping to 6 by 16:00 and returning to a mild 1 by 19:00. This hourly dance of UV levels underscores the need for vigilance during the sun's most potent hours.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 1 | 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 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variations, peaking during the summer months from May through September, with levels reaching as high as 14 in August and September, indicating an extreme exposure category where the burn time is only 10 minutes. January, February, November, and December present very high UV levels of 9, with slightly longer burn times of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during high-risk months, particularly from March to October, when UV levels are at their highest. Protective measures such as applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours are essential to mitigate the risk of overexposure and potential skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bakau | 9 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 9 |
Serekunda UVI | 9 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 9 |
Brikama UVI | 9 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 9 |
Banjul UVI | 9 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 9 |
Farafenni UVI | 9 | 10 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 9 |