UV Index in Sami, Gambia

Last updated: August 1, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Sami, Gambia is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With peak UV levels reaching a sharp 13 around midday, awareness of these readings can help you effectively prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. Sami's Aw climate means that the sun's rays can be particularly intense, especially during the dry season. Being informed about the UV Index not only promotes safer sun exposure but also fosters better skin health, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful Gambian sun responsibly.

Hourly UV Index in Sami

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	10	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 Sami

The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variation, peaking in the summer months from March to October, where it reaches an extreme level of 13 or higher. Notably, August records the highest UV Index at 14, while January and November see a slight decrease to 9, resulting in a very high exposure category. Residents and visitors should be particularly cautious during the high-risk months of April to September, when burn times are critically low at 10 minutes. To minimize health risks, it is advisable to seek shade, wear protective clothing, and apply sunscreen liberally during these periods, especially from midday to early afternoon when UV radiation is most intense.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Sami, Gambia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Sami 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.

Sami'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
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
Sami	9	10	13	13	13	13	13	14	13	12	9	8
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