Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Sun Kunda, Gambia, where the sun's intensity can rapidly escalate throughout the day. With peak UV levels reaching a staggering 12 around midday, being aware of these levels can significantly help in preventing sunburn and protecting your skin health. In this Aw climate zone, where the sun shines brightly and consistently, recognizing the risks associated with high UV exposure is essential for maintaining outdoor safety and avoiding long-term skin damage. Stay informed to enjoy the sun responsibly!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a mild 1 by 07:00. By 08:00, it climbs to 2, and by 09:00, it reaches 4, signaling that it's time to pay attention to sun safety. The intensity peaks impressively at 12 during the noon hour (12:00-13:00), urging everyone to seek shade and apply sunscreen. As the afternoon progresses, the index slightly decreases, with 11 at 14:00 and dropping to 9 by 15:00. As evening approaches, the UV levels fall dramatically, landing back at 1 by 18:00 and lingering there until 19:00. Overall, this hourly trend emphasizes the importance of sun protection during the midday hours when the UV exposure is at its highest.
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 | 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 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 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.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sun Kunda | 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 |