Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Sukuta, Gambia, where the tropical climate can lead to high levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. With UV levels peaking at 12 during midday hours, awareness of these values is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. Awareness of the UV Index helps you take proactive measures to shield yourself from harmful effects, particularly when basking in Sukuta's sunny weather. As you enjoy the beauty of this vibrant locale, keep an eye on the UV Index to ensure a safe and healthy outdoor experience.
Today’s UV Index presents a dynamic range of sunlight exposure, peaking dramatically during midday hours. Starting low at 1 around 07:00 and 08:00, the index begins to rise steadily, hitting 3 by 09:00. As the clock strikes 10:00, it surges to 6, but it’s the hours from 11:00 to 13:00 where caution is urged, peaking at a scorching 12 at 13:00. After this zenith, UV levels gradually decline, dropping to 9 at 15:00 and settling down to 1 by 18:00. Be sure to protect your skin during those high-index hours, particularly from 11:00 to 14:00 when UV radiation is at its most intense!
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 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 11 | 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, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variations, peaking during the summer months from May through September, with levels reaching as high as 14 in August and September, indicating an extreme exposure category where the burn time is only 10 minutes. January, February, November, and December present very high UV levels of 9, with slightly longer burn times of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during high-risk months, particularly from March to October, when UV levels are at their highest. Protective measures such as applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours are essential to mitigate the risk of overexposure and potential skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sukuta | 9 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 9 |
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 |