UV Index in Cha Kunda, Gambia

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Cha Kunda, Gambia, where the sun’s intensity can pose significant risks to skin health. With daily UV levels often soaring, especially between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, awareness is key to preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage. Given Cha Kunda's Aw climate, which features plenty of sunshine, it’s essential to recognize how varying UV levels throughout the day can impact your outdoor activities. Stay informed and protect your skin from the powerful rays of the sun!

Hourly UV Index in Cha Kunda

The UV Index throughout the day paints an intriguing picture of solar intensity. Beginning at a gentle 1 between 07:00 and 08:00, the levels rise steadily, reaching a noticeable 4 by 09:00. As the sun climbs higher, the index soars to a peak of 12 at 12:00, signaling the need for diligent sun protection. The highest point arrives at 13:00 with a remarkable 13, before beginning a gradual descent. By 15:00, it drops to 8, and by 17:00, it falls to 2, finally returning to a low 1 by 18:00 and staying consistent through to 19:00. This daily pattern highlights the dynamic nature of UV exposure, reminding us to stay vigilant as we bask in the sun's rays.

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	4	moderate	30 min
10:00	7	high	25 min
11:00	10	very high	15 min
12:00	12	extreme	10 min
13:00	13	extreme	10 min
14:00	11	extreme	10 min
15:00	8	very high	15 min
16:00	5	moderate	30 min
17:00	2	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Cha Kunda

The UV Index reveals significant seasonal variations, with the highest levels recorded from March to October, where it frequently reaches 13, categorized as extreme. This places March through October as the high-risk months for sun exposure, necessitating caution. Particularly in this span, the recommended burn time reduces to just 10 minutes, emphasizing the need for protective measures. In contrast, January, February, November, and December exhibit a UV Index ranging from 8 to 9, classified as very high, allowing for slightly longer exposure times of 15 minutes. To ensure safety for both visitors and residents, it is crucial to adopt sun protection strategies such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours, especially between March and October.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Cha Kunda, Gambia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Cha Kunda 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.

Cha Kunda'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
Cha Kunda	8	9	12	11	13	12	13	13	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