UV Index in Koidu, Sierra Leone

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Koidu, Sierra Leone, where the sun's intensity can pose significant risks to skin health. With a tropical climate characterized by warm, sunny days, Koidu experiences high UV levels, especially during midday hours. Awareness of these levels is essential for preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage. During the peak UV index hours, particularly between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, when readings can soar to a staggering 13, taking protective measures becomes vital. Stay informed and enjoy the sun safely by keeping an eye on the UV index!

Hourly UV Index in Koidu

As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off low, peaking at 1 at 07:00, and gradually climbs throughout the morning. By 10:00, it reaches a moderate 7, indicating a significant increase in UV radiation. The intensity accelerates, peaking at a staggering 13 between 12:00 and 13:00, signaling the most critical hours for sun exposure. As the afternoon progresses, the UV Index gradually declines, dropping to 8 at 15:00, before tapering off to 2 by 17:00. The day concludes with a retreating index of 1 at 18:00 and settling at 0 by 19:00. This data underlines the importance of sun safety during peak hours, particularly between 11:00 and 14:00, when protection from UV rays is essential.

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	12	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 Koidu

During the year, UV Index levels exhibit significant seasonal variation, with the highest readings occurring from March to September. Notably, September peaks with a UV Index of 14, reflecting an extreme exposure category where the burn time is just 10 minutes. For visitors and residents, it is crucial to recognize that January through April continue to show extreme UV levels of 11 to 13, maintaining a consistent risk for skin damage with a burn time of only 10 minutes. Furthermore, even during the fall and winter months of November and December, UV levels drop to 10 but still remain in the very high category, extending burn times to 15 minutes. Therefore, it is essential to protect your skin year-round, particularly from March to September, by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Koidu, Sierra Leone

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Koidu 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.

Koidu'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 UVI	11	11	11	13	13	12	13	13	13	12	10	10
Koidu	11	11	12	13	13	13	13	13	14	12	10	10