UV Index in Bani, Gambia

Last updated: August 1, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is vital for residents and visitors of Bani, Gambia, where the intense sunlight can pose significant risks to skin health. With peak UV levels often reaching dangerous heights, awareness of these levels is essential not only for preventing painful sunburns but also for protecting long-term skin integrity. Situated in an Aw climate zone, Bani experiences high UV exposure throughout much of the year, particularly during the midday hours when indices soar to 12 and beyond. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the warm Gambian sun while taking appropriate precautions to safeguard your skin.

Hourly UV Index in Bani

The UV Index journey begins early, with mild levels of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00. As the sun rises higher, the intensity spikes, reaching 3 by 09:00. By 10:00, it climbs to 6, hinting at the intensifying sun. At 11:00, we hit 9, and by noon, the levels peak at a staggering 12—a clear signal to seek shade! The maximum UV exposure occurs from 13:00 to 14:00, registering 13 before it begins to wane. The afternoon sees a descent back to 10 at 15:00, followed by a gentle dip to 6 at 16:00. As the day transitions into evening, the UV Index drops to 3 at 17:00 and settles back at 1 by 18:00 and 19:00, concluding a day of sunshine and caution. Be sure to protect your skin during peak hours!

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	10	very high	15 min
12:00	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	14	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Bani

The UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal variation, with highest levels occurring from March to October, peaking at 14 in August. Notably, the months of March through October are classified as high-risk with an extreme exposure category, where the recommended burn time is only 10 minutes. Residents and visitors should exercise caution during these months by seeking shade, wearing UV-protective clothing, and applying sunscreen regularly, especially from late morning to early afternoon when the sun’s rays are strongest. In contrast, November and December see a decrease in UV levels, returning to a very high category but with a burn time of 15 minutes, prompting slightly less urgency for sun protection but still warranting attention.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Bani, Gambia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Bani 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.

Bani'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
Bani	9	10	12	12	13	13	13	14	13	12	9	8
Bakau UVI	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