UV Index in Freetown, Antigua and Barbuda

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is essential for the residents and visitors of Freetown, Antigua and Barbuda. Awareness of UV levels is crucial for effective sunburn prevention and maintaining skin health, particularly in a climate characterized by intense sunlight and frequent outdoor activities. During the day, UV exposure can reach dangerous levels, peaking at a staggering 14 around noon. With such high UV indices, knowing when to seek shade or apply protective measures is vital in safeguarding against harmful effects such as skin damage and increased risk of skin cancer. Protect yourself and stay informed – your skin will thank you!

Hourly UV Index in Freetown

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its gradual ascent, starting at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it reaches 3, encouraging early risers to don some sunscreen. The intensity climbs sharply, peaking at an intense 14 by 12:00 PM, and staying robust at 13 until 1:00 PM. After this midday high, the index steadily declines, dropping to 7 by 3:00 PM, and to a gentle 1 by 5:00 PM. As the day winds down, the UV Index returns to its lowest point of 0 by 7:00 PM, marking a clear reminder of the sun's powerful rays and the importance of protection during peak hours!

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	3	moderate	30 min
09:00	6	high	25 min
10:00	10	very high	15 min
11:00	12	extreme	10 min
12:00	14	extreme	10 min
13:00	13	extreme	10 min
14:00	10	very high	15 min
15:00	7	high	25 min
16:00	4	moderate	30 min
17:00	1	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Freetown

During the year, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, with extreme levels prevalent from February through October. The highest risk months are March and July, where the UV Index peaks at 13 and 14, respectively, necessitating cautious sun exposure practices. For residents and visitors, it's crucial to stay informed about daily UV levels, especially during these high-risk months, and to adopt protective measures such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and UV-blocking clothing. Remember, even on cloudy days, UV rays can penetrate clouds; thus, it’s vital to remain vigilant throughout the year as burn times range from 10 to 15 minutes depending on the month.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Freetown, Antigua and Barbuda

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Freetown. 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 Freetown, 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 Freetown UV Index with Other Antigua and Barbuda Cities

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

Freetown's solar exposure compared to other cities in Antigua and Barbuda. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Freetown	9	11	13	13	13	13	14	13	13	12	9	9
Bolands UVI	9	11	13	13	13	13	14	13	13	12	9	9
Liberta UVI	9	11	13	13	13	13	14	13	13	12	9	9
Piggotts UVI	9	11	13	13	13	13	14	13	13	12	9	9
All Saints UVI	9	11	13	13	13	13	14	13	13	12	9	9
Saint John's UVI	9	11	13	13	13	13	14	13	13	12	9	9