Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the residents of Binkolo, Sierra Leone, where the sun's rays can have a significant impact on daily life. Awareness of UV levels is essential not only for preventing painful sunburns but also for safeguarding long-term skin health. With Binkolo’s warm climate situated in the tropical zone, the UV Index often reaches high levels, particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM when it peaks at a striking 12 and even 13. By being informed of these risks, you can take proactive steps to protect yourself from the sun's harmful effects while enjoying the beauty of your surroundings.
The day's UV index showcases a fascinating journey through the hours, beginning with a gentle rise from 1 at 07:00 to a noticeable 3 by 09:00. As the sun ascends, the intensity peaks dramatically, reaching a striking 12 at noon and an impressive 13 by 13:00. This is the time for caution; with such high levels, seeking shade or applying sunscreen is essential. The afternoon sees a gradual decline, transitioning from 11 at 14:00 to 9 at 15:00, and finally, the index settles back to a more relaxed 1 by 19:00. Embrace the midday sun wisely to ensure a safe and enjoyable day outdoors!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 1 | 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 | 14 | 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 |
The UV Index exhibits notable seasonal variations, peaking in the late summer and early autumn months. January and November show a very high risk with an index of 10, allowing for a burn time of 15 minutes. However, from February through October, the UV Index ranges between 11 and 14, indicating an extreme risk with a consistent burn time of only 10 minutes. Particularly high-risk months include March, April, May, June, July, August, September, and October, where exposure should be minimized. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take protective measures during these months, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, and seeking shade whenever possible, especially during midday 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 |
Binkolo | 10 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 9 |
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 |