UV Index in Kukuna, Sierra Leone

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Kukuna, Sierra Leone is essential for residents and visitors alike, as it provides crucial information about sun exposure and potential skin damage. With high UV levels peaking between 11 AM and 1 PM, awareness is key to sunburn prevention and maintaining long-term skin health. The tropical climate in Kukuna, characterized by intense sunlight, poses significant risks for those unaware of UV exposure levels. By checking the UV Index regularly, you can make informed decisions to protect yourself and your loved ones from harmful effects while enjoying the sunshine!

Hourly UV Index in Kukuna

As the day unfolds, the UV Index rises sharply, starting from a gentle 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it nudges up to 2, but the real intensity kicks in after that. At 09:00, it reaches 4, then surges to a striking 7 by 10:00. The peak arrives at 12:00, where the UV Index hits 12, and it climbs even higher to a sizzling 13 at 13:00. This midday burst of sunshine ensures maximum exposure, but it starts to ease off by 14:00, settling back to 12. The afternoon hours see a noticeable decline, with a drop to 9 at 15:00, and then a steady fall to 5 by 16:00. As the sun begins to set, the UV Index dwindles to 2 at 17:00, finally tapering off to a mellow 1 by 18:00 and remaining at that level until dusk at 19:00. Stay protected during those peak hours!

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	10	very high	15 min
12:00	12	extreme	10 min
13:00	13	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	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Kukuna

The UV Index experiences significant fluctuations throughout the year, peaking in September with an index of 14, which is categorized as extreme, and requiring a burn time of just 10 minutes. From February to October, the UV levels are consistently within the extreme category (indices 11-14), indicating that these are high-risk months for UV exposure. January, November, and December present very high levels, but with slightly longer safe exposure times of 15 minutes. To protect against harmful UV radiation, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to take precautions such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during the peak months of March to October when UV levels are most dangerous.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Kukuna, Sierra Leone

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Kukuna 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.

Kukuna'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
Kukuna	10	11	12	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