Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents of Koyima, Sierra Leone, where the climate is characterized by significant sun exposure throughout the year. As UV levels can rapidly reach hazardous heights—peaking at a striking UV Index of 13 between noon and 1 PM—being aware of these fluctuations is crucial for protecting your skin health and preventing painful sunburns. With the typical high UV exposure in Koyima's tropical climate, staying informed about daily UV levels empowers you to take necessary precautions, ensuring that fun in the sun remains safe and enjoyable.
The UV Index today showcases a dramatic rise as the day progresses, peaking at 13 around 1:00 PM. Early morning starts with a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, gradually increasing to a moderate 4 by 9:00 AM. As the sun reaches its zenith, it intensifies to 12 at noon, before hitting the maximum of 13 just after. Post-peak, the UV levels gradually decline, dipping to 5 by 4:00 PM and falling to a safe 0 by 7:00 PM. This pattern emphasizes the importance of sun protection during midday hours when the UV Index is at its highest. Stay cautious and enjoy the sun wisely!
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 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 9 | 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 |
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.
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 |
Koyima | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 10 |
Koidu UVI | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 10 |