UV Index in Kenema, Sierra Leone

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is vital for residents of Kenema, Sierra Leone, where intense sun exposure is a part of daily life. With scorching midday UV levels often reaching as high as 13, awareness of these readings can significantly help in preventing sunburn and promoting long-term skin health. The tropical climate in Kenema contributes to elevated UV risks, particularly from mid-morning to early afternoon. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can take proactive measures to protect yourself and enjoy the sun safely.

Hourly UV Index in Kenema

The UV Index on this particular day exhibits a striking pattern, peaking at 13 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Rising steadily from a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, it escalates sharply to 11 by 11:00 AM and reaches its zenith at noon. After this intense midday exposure, the index begins to decline, falling to 5 by 4:00 PM, then gradually tapering off to 0 by 7:00 PM. It's a clear reminder to stay protected during those peak hours, especially when the sun is highest in the sky!

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	2	low	45 min
09:00	4	moderate	30 min
10:00	7	high	25 min
11:00	11	extreme	10 min
12:00	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	13	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Kenema

Throughout the year, UV exposure in this region remains consistently high, with extreme levels recorded from January to August. The highest UV Index is observed in April, May, July, and August, each reaching a UV Index of 13 and a burn time of just 10 minutes. As the year progresses towards November and December, the UV Index dips slightly to 10 but still falls within the very high exposure category, with burn times increasing to 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should take immediate precautions during these high-risk months, particularly from March to September, by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade whenever possible to minimize the risk of harmful UV exposure.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Kenema, Sierra Leone

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

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

Kenema's solar exposure compared to other cities in Sierra Leone. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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	11	11	11	13	13	12	13	13	13	12	10	10
Koidu UVI	11	11	12	13	13	13	13	13	14	12	10	10