UV Index in Serekunda, Gambia

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Serekunda, Gambia, being aware of the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin and overall health. With the sun reaching its peak intensity in the early afternoon, understanding daily UV levels can help you prevent sunburn and reduce long-term risks such as skin cancer. The typical Aw climate of Serekunda means high temperatures and ample sunshine throughout the year, making it crucial to stay informed about UV exposure risks. Armed with this knowledge, you can enjoy the beautiful Gambian sun while keeping your skin safe and healthy.

Hourly UV Index in Serekunda

Today’s UV Index presents a dynamic range of sunlight exposure, peaking dramatically during midday hours. Starting low at 1 around 07:00 and 08:00, the index begins to rise steadily, hitting 3 by 09:00. As the clock strikes 10:00, it surges to 6, but it’s the hours from 11:00 to 13:00 where caution is urged, peaking at a scorching 12 at 13:00. After this zenith, UV levels gradually decline, dropping to 9 at 15:00 and settling down to 1 by 18:00. Be sure to protect your skin during those high-index hours, particularly from 11:00 to 14:00 when UV radiation is at its most intense!

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	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	11	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Serekunda

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Serekunda, Gambia

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

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

Serekunda's solar exposure compared to other cities in Gambia. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Serekunda	9	10	12	13	12	12	13	14	14	12	9	9
Bakau 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