Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Ziguinchor, Senegal, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels is vital for preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage, especially during the peak hours when the UV Index is highest, such as around noon when it reaches a staggering 12. With its Aw climate, characterized by a tropical savanna, Ziguinchor experiences significant UV exposure throughout the year, making it essential for residents and visitors alike to stay informed and take necessary precautions. Safeguarding your skin from harmful UV rays not only enhances your outdoor experiences but also promotes healthier living in this vibrant region.
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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |