Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Buba, Guinea-Bissau, where the tropical climate leads to significant sun exposure. With UV levels peaking at a striking 13 around midday, awareness of these fluctuations is vital for preventing sunburn and safeguarding skin health. As the sun's intensity varies throughout the day, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen can make all the difference in maintaining well-being and enjoying outdoor activities in this vibrant region. Stay informed and take proactive measures to protect yourself from the potential hazards of high UV levels!
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 varies significantly throughout the year, with the highest values typically occurring during the summer months. January and February see a UV Index of 10 (very high) with a burn time of just 15 minutes. As spring arrives in March and April, the index rises to 11 and 12 (extreme), reducing the burn time to 10 minutes. May through October presents a critical period where the UV Index reaches a maximum of 14 (extreme), and the burn time remains dangerously low at 10 minutes. November and December see a slight decline, with values returning to 10 and 9 (very high), but still warranting caution. Therefore, visitors and residents should take extra precautions from March through October, especially during the peak summer months, by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade to minimize UV exposure.
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 |
| Buba | 10 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 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 |
| Bissora UVI | 9 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 9 |