Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Daba Kunda, Gambia, where the sun's rays can be particularly intense due to the region's Aw climate. Knowing the levels of ultraviolet radiation helps in preventing sunburn and protecting skin health, especially during peak hours when the UV Index reaches a maximum of 13 around noon. With such significant exposure risks, being informed about the daily UV levels not only fosters safe outdoor experiences but also encourages proactive measures to shield yourself from harmful effects, ensuring you enjoy the beautiful Gambian sunshine responsibly.
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.
| 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 |
The UV Index experiences significant seasonal fluctuations, with high-risk months typically spanning from March to October, when the index reaches extreme levels of 12 to 13 and burn times are as short as 10 minutes. Notably, June through September are peak months for UV exposure, emphasizing the need for heightened caution. During these times, residents and visitors should take appropriate sun protection measures, such as wearing sunscreen with high SPF, donning protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours. Conversely, the months of January, February, November, and December present lower, yet still concerning, levels of very high UV exposure, necessitating 15 minutes of burn time awareness. Overall, it’s crucial to remain vigilant year-round, especially during the peak summer months, to ensure safety from harmful UV rays.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Daba Kunda | 9 | 9 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 8 |
| 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 |