Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the residents of Jarrol, Gambia, where the warm Aw climate presents unique sun exposure risks. With peak UV levels reaching a striking 13 around midday, awareness of these levels is vital for sunburn prevention and overall skin health. By grasping the intensity of UV radiation at different times of the day, locals can take necessary precautions, safeguarding themselves from harmful effects. As the sun climbs higher in the sky, so does the potential for skin damage; hence, staying informed about the daily UV Index can make all the difference in enjoying the sun safely.
The UV Index for the day tells a fascinating story of rising intensity under the sun. Early risers at 07:00 and 08:00 experienced a mild UV Index of 1, perfect for leisurely outdoor activities. As the day progressed, the index climbed steadily, reaching a moderate 3 by 09:00. By 11:00, it surged to 9, marking the start of peak sun exposure. The sun blazed at 12:00, reaching a high of 12, and continued to shine at 13:00 with an impressive 13. Throughout the afternoon, the intensity began to retreat, falling to 12 by 14:00 and gently tapering to 9 at 15:00. By evening, the sun’s grip loosened, with the index dropping to 3 at 17:00 and finally returning to a gentle 1 by 18:00 and 19:00. A day filled with sunshine serves as a reminder to stay protected during those peak hours!
| 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 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels fluctuate significantly, with marked increases from January to September. The highest UV exposure occurs from March to October, reaching extremes of 13 to 14 and resulting in very short burn times of only 10 minutes during the peak months of June to August. Notably, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, and October are designated as high-risk months due to their extreme levels, while January, February, November, and December are categorized as very high, with longer burn time tolerances of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during these months, such as wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Jarrol | 9 | 10 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 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 |