Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Kunting, Gambia, where the Aw climate brings intense sunlight throughout the year. Being aware of daily UV levels can help you take essential precautions against sunburn and long-term skin damage. In Kunting, afternoons typically see UV Index values soaring as high as 13, emphasizing the need for vigilance during peak hours. By mastering UV awareness, you can enjoy the sunny days while keeping your skin healthy and protected.
The UV Index displays a dynamic pattern throughout the day, starting with a gentle level 1 at 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM, perfect for early risers. As the sun climbs higher, the intensity increases sharply, peaking at a striking 12 around noon and reaching its zenith at 1 PM with an impressive 13. From that point, the index gradually declines, dropping to 6 by 4 PM, and then further down to a softer 3 by 5 PM. By evening, it returns to 1 at 6 PM, inviting a sense of relief as the day winds down. This data emphasizes the importance of sun safety, especially during those peak hours when the UV Index is at its highest.
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 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 13 | 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 |
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.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Kunting | 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 |