Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Greenville, Liberia, where the tropical climate brings intense sun exposure, especially during midday hours. Awareness of UV levels is vital for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health, as prolonged exposure can lead to serious dermatological issues. With peak UV Index values reaching as high as 11 around noon, it's essential to stay informed about the risks of sun exposure and take protective measures during the hottest parts of each day. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can better enjoy the sun while safeguarding your skin from potential damage.
The UV index throughout the day reveals a significant pattern of increasing intensity. Starting at 07:00, the index is a mere 1, indicating low risk. As the sun rises higher, it climbs to 3 by 09:00, then surges to 6 at 10:00. The peak is reached at 12:00 and 13:00 with a striking 11, marking a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. From there, it gradually declines, dropping to 4 by 16:00, and eventually returning to 1 by 18:00. After 19:00, the index falls to 0, signaling the end of the sun's potent rays for the day. Whether you're lounging outdoors or on an errand, be mindful of the sun's intensity, especially between noon and early afternoon!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | 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 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index remains extremely high throughout the year, with values peaking at 14 in April and generally hovering between 11 and 13 from January to May and again in August and September. The high-risk months for sun exposure are clearly from March to May, when the Index reaches its zenith, signaling a burn time of just 10 minutes. Even as the year progresses into the latter months, the UV Index remains concerningly elevated, particularly in October and November. Therefore, it is advisable for both residents and visitors to take extra precautions during these months: wear protective clothing, apply sunscreen regularly, and seek shade, especially around midday when UV radiation is most intense. In December, while the index drops to 10, it’s still categorized as very high, suggesting that sun safety measures should remain a priority year-round.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monrovia UVI | 11 | 12 | 12 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 10 |
| Bensonville UVI | 11 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 10 |
| Kakata UVI | 11 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 10 |
| Harper UVI | 11 | 12 | 12 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 11 |
| Greenville | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 |
| Gbarnga UVI | 11 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 10 |