Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Essau, Gambia, where the Aw climate brings warm temperatures and ample sunshine throughout the year. Being aware of UV levels helps in effectively preventing sunburn and safeguarding skin health, especially given the area's higher readings during midday hours, with peaks reaching 13 around 1 PM. As the sun's UV rays can be particularly intense, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen can make all the difference in enjoying the sun safely while protecting your skin from long-term damage. Stay informed, stay protected!
The UV Index shows a striking trend throughout the day, peaking during the afternoon hours. It starts at a gentle 1 by 07:00, remaining low until 09:00, when it climbs to 3. The real intensity arrives by 10:00, reaching 6, and then skyrocketing to an impressive 12 at 12:00. As it reaches its zenith of 13 by 13:00, the sun's rays become particularly potent. Following this peak, the UV levels gradually decrease, dropping to 11 at 14:00, and then tapering off to 9 by 15:00. The decline continues as evening approaches, settling back to 3 at 17:00, and ultimately returning to low levels of 1 by 18:00 and 19:00. It’s a vivid reminder to take care of skin protection during midday hours!
| 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 | 11 | 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 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 |
| Essau | 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 |