Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Blama, Sierra Leone is crucial for ensuring the health and safety of its residents and visitors. As the region experiences a predominantly tropical climate, the potential for harmful UV exposure is heightened, particularly during the midday hours when indices peak significantly. Recognizing and monitoring UV levels can help prevent sunburns and long-term skin damage, enabling you to enjoy the sun's warmth while safeguarding your skin’s health. With UV Index readings in Blama reaching up to 12 around noon, awareness is key to making informed decisions about outdoor activities and protecting yourself against the sun's intense rays.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its climb, peaking with intensity around noon. Starting at a mere 1 at 07:00, it escalates to a moderate 4 by 09:00, reaching 10 by 11:00 and peaking at 12 from 12:00 to 13:00. This midday zenith signals the need for protection; without it, prolonged exposure could be harmful. By the afternoon, the numbers gradually dip, falling to 8 at 15:00, then to 5 by 16:00. As the day winds down, the UV strength diminishes, settling back at 1 by 18:00 and dropping to 0 by 19:00, reminding us that while the sun shines bright, it’s wise to seek shade during the peak hours. Stay safe and smart about sun exposure!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV index levels remain notably high, with extreme exposure risks from January to October where the index frequently reaches 11 to 13. The peak months for UV exposure are April, May, August, and September, where the index consistently hits 13, indicating an extreme burn time of just 10 minutes. As we move into November and December, the risk slightly decreases to a very high category, with a UV index of 10 and an extended burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should take precautions during these high-risk months by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and minimizing sun exposure, particularly during peak hours, to safeguard against harmful UV radiation.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Freetown UVI | 10 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 9 |
Bo UVI | 10 | 11 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 10 |
Makeni UVI | 10 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 9 |
Kenema UVI | 11 | 11 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 10 |
Blama | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 10 |
Koidu UVI | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 10 |