Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Kamakwie, Sierra Leone, where the prevalent Am climate brings significant sun exposure. Being aware of the UV levels can help individuals protect themselves against harmful effects like sunburn and long-term skin health issues. During peak hours, particularly between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, Kamakwie experiences high UV readings, reaching a maximum of 13 at 1:00 PM. This underscores the importance of sun safety practices to minimize risks associated with intense sunlight in this vibrant community. Stay informed, stay safe!
At dawn, the UV Index begins its gradual ascent, starting at a mild 1 by 7:00 AM. As the morning unfolds, it climbs to 2 by 8:00 AM and then surges to 4 by 9:00 AM. The sun truly asserts its strength by 10:00 AM, where the index peaks at 7, a clear signal to take precautions. The heat intensifies, reaching a striking 12 at noon, before hitting its apex at 1 PM with a blistering 13. As the afternoon rolls on, the index starts to wane; it dips to 11 at 2 PM, then gradually declines to 9 by 3 PM. By late afternoon and into the evening, the UV Index drops sharply to 2 at 5 PM and finally settles back at 1 by 6 PM and beyond, heralding a cool down for the day. This hourly progression highlights the importance of sun safety during the peak hours from 10 AM to 3 PM.
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 | 11 | 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 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index dramatically changes throughout the year, with the highest levels occurring from March to September, where it reaches an extreme category of 12 to 14. The most critical months for UV exposure are March to October, with September showing the peak UV Index of 14, implying a burn time of just 10 minutes. During these high-risk months, it's crucial for visitors and residents to take protective measures such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, and to seek shade during peak sun hours. Conversely, while January, February, November, and December see a UV Index of 9 to 10, which is still labeled very high, the burn time increases to 15 minutes, allowing for slightly more exposure. It remains essential to be cautious year-round, but heightened vigilance is advised during the peak summer months.
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 |
Kamakwie | 10 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 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 |