Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Canchungo, Guinea-Bissau, where the sun's rays can be intense, especially during the midday hours. With peak UV levels reaching 13 between 1 PM and 2 PM, awareness of these fluctuations is key to protecting your skin and preventing painful sunburns. In this tropical climate, characterized by its Aw classification, the risks associated with high UV exposure are significant, underscoring the importance of monitoring daily UV levels to promote skin health and ensure safe outdoor activities. Stay informed, stay safe, and enjoy the sun responsibly!
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 |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, peaking during the summer months. From January to November, the UV Index ranges between 9 and 10, classified as very high, with a burn time of 15 minutes. However, from March through October, the index reaches extreme levels, ranging from 12 to 14, with a considerably reduced burn time of just 10 minutes. The high-risk months are primarily March through October, particularly in August and September, when the UV Index peaks at 14. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during these months, including wearing protective clothing, using broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours, to minimize the risk of UV-related harm.
UV Risk Categories
| 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 |
| Bolama UVI | 10 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 9 |
| Bissau UVI | 10 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 9 |
| Canchungo | 9 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 9 |
| Bissora UVI | 9 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 9 |