Last updated: August 1, 2025
In Gberia Fotombu, Sierra Leone, being aware of the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels is crucial for preventing sunburn and potential long-term skin damage, especially in the region's Aw climate, where intense sun exposure is common. During peak hours, particularly between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, UV Index levels can soar to a high of 13, posing significant risks. By staying informed about these fluctuations, residents and visitors can take proactive measures to enjoy the sun safely while safeguarding their skin's health.
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 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 14 | 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 experiences significant changes throughout the year, with extreme levels recorded from January to October, peaking at 14 in August and September. This indicates that these months, along with March, April, May, June, July, and October, pose a high risk for UV exposure, where a mere 10 minutes of sun can lead to skin burns. In November and December, the UV Index drops to 10, categorized as very high, allowing for a slightly more extended burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take protective measures, such as using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during the high-risk months of August and September when the UV exposure is at its peak.
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 |
Koidu UVI | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 10 |
Gberia Fotombu | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 10 |