Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Tankular, Gambia, being aware of the UV Index is essential for safeguarding your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels helps you take proactive measures against sunburn and long-term skin damage, especially when the sun reaches its peak intensity. With a BSh climate, Tankular experiences intense sunlight, particularly during midday hours when the UV Index can soar to a striking 12 around noon and 13 in the early afternoon. By staying informed about these levels, residents and visitors can enjoy the beautiful Gambian outdoors while minimizing the risks associated with high UV exposure.
The UV Index displays a fascinating hourly progression throughout the day, starting off gently. At 07:00 and 08:00, the index is low, peaking at 1, ideal for morning activities without much sun protection needed. However, as the day unfolds, things heat up—by 09:00 it escalates to 3, and by 10:00, it reaches 6, signaling the sun's increasing strength. The intensity peaks sharply around 12:00, hitting a maximum of 12, before climbing even higher to 13 at 13:00. This is when sun exposure should be minimized, with protective measures highly recommended. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually declines, dropping to 10 at 15:00 and further to 3 by 17:00 as daylight begins to fade. The day wraps up with a soft descent back to 1 by 18:00 and 19:00, marking a safe end to outdoor activities. Stay informed and enjoy the sunshine responsibly!
| 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 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal fluctuations, with the highest levels occurring from March to October. During this period, particularly from August to September, the UV Index reaches extreme levels (up to 14), necessitating vigilant sun protection. January through February and November through December see the UV Index at 9, categorized as very high, indicating a risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure in just 15 minutes. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to take precautions during high-risk months, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours when the sun's intensity is greatest.
UV Risk Categories
| 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 |
| 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 |
| Tankular | 9 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 9 |