UV Index in Ziguinchor, Senegal

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Awareness of the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors of Ziguinchor, Senegal, where the sun shines brightly throughout the year. Understanding UV levels is crucial not only for preventing painful sunburns but also for protecting long-term skin health against harmful rays. Ziguinchor, with its typical Aw climate, experiences significant UV exposure, peaking at an intense 12 around midday. Knowing when to seek shade and applying sunscreen can make all the difference in enjoying the beautiful coastal environment while staying safe under the sun.

Hourly UV Index in Ziguinchor

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!

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	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Ziguinchor

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Ziguinchor, Senegal

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

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

Ziguinchor's solar exposure compared to other cities in Senegal. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
Ziguinchor	9	10	12	12	12	13	13	14	14	12	9	9
Touba UVI	9	10	12	14	13	13	14	14	13	12	10	8