UV Index in Koina, Gambia

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Koina, Gambia, where high levels of sun exposure are common due to its Aw climate. With UV levels peaking between 10 AM and 2 PM, awareness of these values can significantly impact your skin health and help in preventing painful sunburns. Knowledge of UV radiation levels empowers you to make informed decisions about sun protection, ensuring you can enjoy the beautiful Gambian sun safely while minimizing risks associated with excessive UV exposure.

Hourly UV Index in Koina

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.

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Koina

The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, peaking during the summer months. From March to October, there are consistently extreme levels of UV exposure, with July, August, and September recording the highest index of 13 and a dangerously short burn time of just 10 minutes. The high-risk months for UV exposure are primarily from March through October, making this a critical period for sun safety. During these times, it is essential for both visitors and residents to take precautions, such as wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during peak sun hours. In the cooler months of November to February, while the UV Index drops to very high levels of 8 to 9, vigilance is still advisable, particularly on sunny days.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Koina, Gambia

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Koina. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Koina, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Koina UV Index with Other Gambia Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Koina compares to other major locations across Gambia. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Koina's solar exposure compared to other cities in Gambia. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Koina	8	9	11	11	12	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