Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Diabugu, Gambia, where the Aw climate enhances sunlight exposure year-round. With UV levels soaring to a peak of 13 around midday, awareness of these levels helps you prevent sunburn and protect your skin health. The risk of skin damage is particularly high during the hours of 10 AM to 2 PM, making it essential to monitor the UV Index and take appropriate precautions. Stay informed and enjoy the Gambian sun safely to ensure your outdoor experiences are both enjoyable and health-conscious!
The UV Index throughout the day paints an intriguing picture of solar intensity. Beginning at a gentle 1 between 07:00 and 08:00, the levels rise steadily, reaching a noticeable 4 by 09:00. As the sun climbs higher, the index soars to a peak of 12 at 12:00, signaling the need for diligent sun protection. The highest point arrives at 13:00 with a remarkable 13, before beginning a gradual descent. By 15:00, it drops to 8, and by 17:00, it falls to 2, finally returning to a low 1 by 18:00 and staying consistent through to 19:00. This daily pattern highlights the dynamic nature of UV exposure, reminding us to stay vigilant as we bask in the sun's rays.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 13 | 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 reveals significant seasonal variations, with the highest levels recorded from March to October, where it frequently reaches 13, categorized as extreme. This places March through October as the high-risk months for sun exposure, necessitating caution. Particularly in this span, the recommended burn time reduces to just 10 minutes, emphasizing the need for protective measures. In contrast, January, February, November, and December exhibit a UV Index ranging from 8 to 9, classified as very high, allowing for slightly longer exposure times of 15 minutes. To ensure safety for both visitors and residents, it is crucial to adopt sun protection strategies such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours, especially between March and October.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Diabugu | 8 | 9 | 12 | 11 | 13 | 12 | 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 |