UV Index in Bissau, Guinea-Bissau

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Bissau, Guinea-Bissau, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With a tropical climate that boasts strong sunlight year-round, local residents and visitors alike should be vigilant about UV exposure, especially during peak hours. The UV Index can reach dangerously high levels around noon, peaking at 12 and 13 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, heightening the risk for sunburn and long-term skin damage. By staying informed about UV levels, you can enjoy the beautiful Bissau sunshine while safeguarding your skin against its harmful effects.

Hourly UV Index in Bissau

The UV Index today shows a significant peak of sunlight intensity around noon, reaching a striking 12 at 12:00 PM, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. The intensity gradually rises from an early low of 1 at 7:00 AM to reach 9 by 11:00 AM, before hitting its zenith of 13 at 1:00 PM. As the afternoon progresses, a gradual decline occurs, decreasing to 5 by 4:00 PM and tapering off to 1 by 6:00 PM. It's a day to stay vigilant under the sun, particularly during the peak hours of 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, when sun protection is paramount.

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	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Bissau

The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variation, peaking from March to October when levels frequently reach the extreme category. The highest indices are recorded in August and September, with an alarming UV Index of 14, correlating to a mere 10-minute burn time for unprotected skin. Visitors and residents alike should exercise caution during these high-risk months—specifically March through October—by minimizing sun exposure, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen diligently. In contrast, January, February, November, and December present a lower but still very high UV Index of 9 to 10, where exposed skin has a burn time of 15 minutes. Maintaining awareness of UV levels year-round is essential for safeguarding skin health.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Bissau, Guinea-Bissau

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Bissau compares to other major locations across Guinea-Bissau. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Bissau's solar exposure compared to other cities in Guinea-Bissau. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Bafata UVI	9	10	12	12	12	13	13	13	13	12	9	9
Gabu UVI	9	10	12	12	13	13	13	14	13	12	10	9
Bissau	10	10	11	12	13	13	13	14	14	12	9	9
Bolama UVI	10	10	11	12	13	13	13	14	14	12	9	9
Bissora UVI	9	10	12	12	13	13	13	14	14	12	9	9