UV Index in Wassu, Gambia

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Wassu, Gambia, understanding the UV Index is essential to protect your skin from harmful sun exposure. As a region characterized by an Aw climate, Wassu experiences high UV levels, especially during midday when they can soar to a dangerous 13. Being aware of these fluctuating UV levels is crucial for preventing sunburn and maintaining long-term skin health. With daily peaks occurring around noon, it's important for locals and visitors alike to take precautions and enjoy the sun responsibly, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable outdoor experience.

Hourly UV Index in Wassu

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.

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	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Wassu

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 Wassu, Gambia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Wassu 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.

Wassu'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
Wassu	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