Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Diabugu, Gambia, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin health amidst the region's Aw climate. With UV levels soaring to a maximum of 12 during midday, understanding these values empowers residents and visitors alike to take proactive measures against sunburn and long-term skin damage. As Diabugu experiences high UV exposure risks, especially during peak hours, staying informed about UV Index levels can make all the difference in ensuring safe outdoor activities and maintaining your well-being.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins at a minimal level of 1 at 7:00 AM and gradually climbs throughout the morning. By 10:00 AM, it reaches 6, and by 11:00 AM, it spikes to a significant 9. The peak arrives at 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, where the UV Index hits a striking 12, indicating the highest potential for skin damage. The intensity starts to wane by 2:00 PM, dropping to 11, and gradually decreases to 9 at 3:00 PM. As the evening approaches, the index continues its decline, with levels returning to 3 by 5:00 PM before settling back down to 1 by 7:00 PM. It’s essential to stay protected during those midday hours when UV exposure is at its peak!
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 | 12 | 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 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 |