UV Index in Somita, Gambia

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Somita, Gambia, staying aware of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining healthy skin and preventing sunburn. With the region's Aw climate typically featuring high levels of sun exposure, understanding daily UV levels can make all the difference in your sun safety routine. From the mild UV levels in the early morning to peak levels reaching 13 around midday, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen is essential. Equip yourself with this vital information to protect your skin and enjoy the beautiful Gambian sun responsibly!

Hourly UV Index in Somita

The UV Index journey begins early, with mild levels of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00. As the sun rises higher, the intensity spikes, reaching 3 by 09:00. By 10:00, it climbs to 6, hinting at the intensifying sun. At 11:00, we hit 9, and by noon, the levels peak at a staggering 12—a clear signal to seek shade! The maximum UV exposure occurs from 13:00 to 14:00, registering 13 before it begins to wane. The afternoon sees a descent back to 10 at 15:00, followed by a gentle dip to 6 at 16:00. As the day transitions into evening, the UV Index drops to 3 at 17:00 and settles back at 1 by 18:00 and 19:00, concluding a day of sunshine and caution. Be sure to protect your skin during peak hours!

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	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	10	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 Somita

Throughout the year, seasonal UV changes reveal notable fluctuations in the UV Index, reaching its peak during the summer months. From March to October, the UV Index typically falls within the extreme range, with values spiking to 14 in August and September, necessitating heightened awareness. The high-risk months for UV exposure are clearly outlined, with March through October posing the greatest threat, as the burn time diminishes to just 10 minutes during this period. In contrast, January, February, November, and December feature a very high exposure category but with longer burn times of 15 minutes. Therefore, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to take proactive measures, such as wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure, particularly during peak hours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. to safeguard against skin damage year-round.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Somita, Gambia

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Somita. 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 Somita, 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 Somita UV Index with Other Gambia Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Somita 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.

Somita'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
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
Somita	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