Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the residents of Somita, Gambia, where the intense tropical climate can expose you to harmful ultraviolet rays. Awareness of UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and protecting your skin health, making it essential to stay informed about daily fluctuations in UV radiation. With Somita's climate characterized by high UV exposure, especially between 10 AM and 2 PM when UV Index levels peak at a blistering 12 to 13, taking precautions is vital to avoid potential skin damage. Stay vigilant and make smart choices to enjoy the sun safely!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins gently at a cool 1 at 7:00 AM, maintaining this level until 9:00 AM, when it slightly climbs to 3. By 10:00 AM, the intensity escalates dramatically to 6, foreshadowing the midday peak. The UV Index reaches its zenith at 12:00 PM, soaring to a blistering 12, and maintains a high of 13 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM—a crucial time to seek shade and wear protection. As the afternoon progresses, the index drops to 10 by 3:00 PM and continues to wane, landing at 3 by 5:00 PM. As daylight dwindles, the UV Index returns to a moderate 1 by 6:00 PM, making those evening strolls safer. Remember, when the sun is at its strongest around noon, take precautions to stay protected!
| 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 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
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.
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 |
| 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 |