UV Index in Port Loko, Sierra Leone

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors in Port Loko, Sierra Leone, as it plays a crucial role in protecting skin health and preventing sunburn. With a climate that often experiences high temperatures and tropical sun exposure, effectively monitoring UV levels becomes a key part of daily life. Knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen can make a significant difference—especially during peak hours, where UV Index readings soar to a striking 12 around noon. Stay informed and safeguard your skin against the harsh effects of the sun while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of Port Loko.

Hourly UV Index in Port Loko

The UV Index reveals a striking peak of intensity around midday, starting from a mild 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, before climbing dramatically to 12 by noon. From 10:00 onwards, outdoor enthusiasts should pay attention as the readings soar, hitting their climax at 12 between 12:00 and 13:00. As the afternoon wanes, the values slowly descend: 11 at 14:00, 8 at 15:00, and tapering down to 5 at 16:00. By the evening, the UV Index drops back to a safe 1 by 18:00. It's clear that the sun commands respect during the peak hours, so stay protected and enjoy your day!

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	1	low	45 min
09:00	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	6	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	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Port Loko

The UV Index experiences significant seasonal variations, with the highest risk occurring from March to October. During these months, the Index frequently reaches an extreme level of 11 to 13, indicating a burn time of just 10 minutes for unprotected skin. Notably, April, May, July, August, and September are particularly critical, with the UV Index consistently at 12 or 13. While the months of January, February, and November still present very high UV levels (Index 10) with a burn time of 15 minutes, the most intense exposure risks are clearly concentrated in the summer and early fall months. Residents and visitors are advised to take precautionary measures during these high-risk months, including seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen regularly to minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Port Loko, Sierra Leone

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Port Loko 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.

Port Loko'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
Port Loko	10	10	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 UVI	11	11	12	13	13	13	13	13	14	12	10	10