UV Index in Cha Kunda, Gambia

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for everyone in Cha Kunda, Gambia, where the Aw climate often brings intense sunshine. Awareness of UV levels empowers residents and visitors alike to protect themselves from harmful UV radiation, reducing the risk of sunburn and promoting long-term skin health. With peak UV readings soaring to 12 around midday, it's vital to be informed about your exposure risks throughout the day. Stay proactive and safeguard your skin as you enjoy the beautiful Gambian sun!

Hourly UV Index in Cha Kunda

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins at a minimal level of 1 at 7:00 AM and gradually climbs throughout the morning. By 10:00 AM, it reaches 6, and by 11:00 AM, it spikes to a significant 9. The peak arrives at 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, where the UV Index hits a striking 12, indicating the highest potential for skin damage. The intensity starts to wane by 2:00 PM, dropping to 11, and gradually decreases to 9 at 3:00 PM. As the evening approaches, the index continues its decline, with levels returning to 3 by 5:00 PM before settling back down to 1 by 7:00 PM. It’s essential to stay protected during those midday hours when UV exposure is at its peak!

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	12	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 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