Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Diabugu Basilla, Gambia, where the climate is classified as Aw (tropical savanna) with typically intense sunlight. With peak UV levels reaching 12 around noon, awareness of these fluctuations can help prevent sunburns and promote overall skin health. The importance of monitoring UV exposure cannot be overstated—taking precautions during high-index hours can safeguard against harmful effects associated with excessive sun exposure, ensuring that you enjoy the beautiful Gambian sun safely.
The UV Index today presents a notable rise in intensity as the morning unfolds. Starting at a modest 1 at 07:00, it gradually escalates to a peak of 12 between 12:00 and 13:00, signaling a high risk for harmful UV exposure. As the afternoon progresses, the readings dip to 11 at 14:00, and then a steady decline leads to a more manageable 5 by 16:00. By evening, the index falls back to 1 by 19:00, marking a significant contrast to the midday sun. Remember to protect your skin during the peak hours of 11:00 to 14:00!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, peaking during the summer months. From January to February, the index is categorized as very high, with a burn time of just 15 minutes. As spring arrives, the UV levels escalate to an extreme category from March to October, reaching a maximum of 13 during the summer. This highlights March through October as high-risk months, with a critical burn time of only 10 minutes. In contrast, November and December return to a very high classification, but with a more manageable burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during these peak UV months by wearing protective clothing, using broad-spectrum sunscreen, and limiting sun exposure, especially during midday hours to safeguard against harmful UV radiation.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Diabugu Basilla | 9 | 10 | 12 | 11 | 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 |