Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Dara, Senegal is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. As a region within a BSh climate zone, Dara experiences intense sun exposure, especially during the peak hours of the day. With UV levels soaring to a maximum of 13 between noon and 2 PM, awareness of these levels can help prevent painful sunburns and long-term skin damage. By staying informed about the UV Index, residents and visitors can take proactive measures to enjoy the sunshine safely and maintain healthy skin while exploring the beauty of Dara.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM, gradually climbing to a moderate 3 by 9:00 AM. However, the real intensity kicks in around 10:00 AM, reaching 6, before peaking at a scorching 12 at noon. The highest point, a blistering 13, is recorded between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM, indicating a strong need for sunscreen and protective measures during these hours. As the afternoon progresses, the UV levels start to decline, dropping to 10 at 3:00 PM, followed by a further decrease to 7 by 4:00 PM. By 5:00 PM, the index returns to a moderate 3, and as evening sets in, it drops to 1 by 7:00 PM, signaling the end of the UV exposure for the day. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine wisely!
| 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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 10 | 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 readings observed from March to October, indicating a period of extreme exposure risk. Specifically, April and August peak at a UV Index of 14, necessitating vigilant sun protection measures. High-risk months for UV exposure are therefore March, April, May, June, July, August, September, and October, where the burn time is as low as 10 minutes. Residents and visitors are advised to take precautions during these months by wearing protective clothing, using broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours when UV radiation is at its strongest. In contrast, although January, February, and November still present a very high risk with burn times of 15 minutes, the threat is comparatively lower, providing slightly more leeway for sun exposure. Overall, it's crucial to remain aware of the UV Index and adapt outdoor activities accordingly to minimize health risks.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pikine UVI | 9 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 10 | 9 |
| Dakar UVI | 9 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 10 | 9 |
| Thies Nones UVI | 9 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 10 | 8 |
| Thies UVI | 9 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 10 | 8 |
| Dara | 9 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 8 |
| Touba UVI | 9 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 8 |