Last updated: August 1, 2025
In Magburaka, Sierra Leone, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With peak UV levels rising significantly during midday hours, understanding these fluctuations helps in preventing sunburns and long-term skin damage. This region experiences a tropical climate with intense sun exposure, making it essential for residents and visitors alike to stay informed about daily UV levels. By knowing when the UV index is highest—often reaching levels above 10 in the early afternoon—you can take proactive steps to safeguard your skin and enjoy the sunny days safely.
The UV Index for the day starts off gently, peaking at 1 until 09:00, making it a safe time for morning activities. However, as the sun climbs higher, the index sharply rises, hitting a dramatic 6 by 10:00 and soaring to its zenith at 12:00 with a formidable 12. The intensity peaks at 13:00 with a UV Index of 13, signaling the most hazardous exposure time. As the afternoon progresses, the UV level gradually wanes, dropping to 11 by 14:00 and easing down to 8, 5, and finally to 1 by 18:00. It's vital to stay protected during the midday hours to avoid harmful sun exposure!
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 | 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 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV index levels fluctuate significantly, with the most intense exposure occurring during the spring and summer months. From March to September, the UV Index peaks at 13 to 14, categorized as extreme, where the recommended burn time is as short as 10 minutes. January and February also present high risk, with a UV Index of 10 classified as very high, suggesting a burn time of 15 minutes. The high-risk months are primarily from March to September, making it crucial for both residents and visitors to take protective measures during these times. Individuals should apply sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade whenever possible, especially during peak sun hours. Remember to stay vigilant, as the UV exposure can lead to serious skin damage even on overcast days.
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 |
Magburaka | 10 | 10 | 11 | 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 |