UV Index in Barra, Gambia

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Barra, Gambia, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin against the sun's harmful rays. Understanding the daily UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and maintaining overall skin health, particularly in this Aw climate zone, where exposure to intense sunlight can be a risk. With peak UV Index readings reaching a high of 13 around midday, it's essential for residents and visitors alike to take precautions during the sunniest hours to enjoy the beautiful Gambian coast safely.

Hourly UV Index in Barra

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins gently at a cool 1 at 7:00 AM, maintaining this level until 9:00 AM, when it slightly climbs to 3. By 10:00 AM, the intensity escalates dramatically to 6, foreshadowing the midday peak. The UV Index reaches its zenith at 12:00 PM, soaring to a blistering 12, and maintains a high of 13 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM—a crucial time to seek shade and wear protection. As the afternoon progresses, the index drops to 10 by 3:00 PM and continues to wane, landing at 3 by 5:00 PM. As daylight dwindles, the UV Index returns to a moderate 1 by 6:00 PM, making those evening strolls safer. Remember, when the sun is at its strongest around noon, take precautions to stay protected!

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	13	extreme	10 min
14:00	13	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Barra

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Barra, Gambia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Barra 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.

Barra'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
Barra	9	10	12	13	13	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