UV Index in Loma, Sierra Leone

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Loma, Sierra Leone, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. The region's tropical climate often exposes residents and visitors to high UV levels, particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM, when the index peaks at an alarming 12. Awareness of these UV ratings helps in preventing sunburns and long-term skin damage, making it essential for outdoor enthusiasts and everyday citizens alike to stay informed. By recognizing the risks associated with elevated UV exposure, you can take proactive steps to protect yourself and enjoy the sunny beauty of Loma safely.

Hourly UV Index in Loma

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.

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	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Loma

The UV Index experiences consistently high levels, peaking at 14 in September and remaining at 13 from May through August, indicating an extreme exposure category throughout much of the year. High-risk months for UV exposure include March through September, where the burn time is a mere 10 minutes for most days. Residents and visitors should take precautions by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and using sunscreen, especially during these peak months to mitigate the risk of UV-related health issues. Notably, even in the fall months of October and November, the UV Index remains concerning, with a very high level recorded in November. Therefore, it's essential to stay vigilant about sun safety year-round.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Loma, Sierra Leone

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Loma 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.

Loma'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
Kenema UVI	11	11	11	13	13	12	13	13	13	12	10	10
Loma	11	11	12	12	13	13	13	13	14	12	10	9
Koidu UVI	11	11	12	13	13	13	13	13	14	12	10	10