UV Index in Panguma, Sierra Leone

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Panguma, Sierra Leone, where the tropical climate brings intense sun exposure year-round. Monitoring UV levels helps prevent sunburn and promotes overall skin health, allowing individuals to enjoy outdoor activities safely. With maximum UV Index readings reaching as high as 13 during the peak hours, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen can significantly reduce the risk of skin damage. Be aware and stay protected in this vibrant, sunlit region!

Hourly UV Index in Panguma

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 Panguma

The UV Index shows significant seasonal variations, peaking in the spring and early fall. From March to September, UV Index values consistently reach between 12 and 14, indicating an extreme exposure category with a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. Notably, September marks the highest UV Index at 14, making it a critical month for sun safety. As we enter November and December, while the UV levels decrease to 10, individuals should still practice caution as the exposure is still categorized as very high, with a burn time of 15 minutes. It is essential for both visitors and residents to take protective measures such as applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours to minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Panguma, Sierra Leone

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Panguma 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.

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