UV Index in Makeni, Sierra Leone

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Makeni, Sierra Leone is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health from harmful solar radiation. With the region's tropical climate, peak UV levels here can soar as high as 13, particularly during midday hours, making awareness essential for sunburn prevention and long-term skin safety. By grasping the implications of UV exposure, residents and visitors alike can take proactive measures to enjoy the sun responsibly while minimizing their risk of skin damage. Stay informed and protect yourself against the powerful rays that characterize Makeni's bright and vibrant environment!

Hourly UV Index in Makeni

The UV Index today showcases a dramatic rise as the sun reaches its peak. Starting at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM, it climbs steadily to a moderate 4 by 9:00 AM, before soaring to an intense 10 at 11:00 AM. The highest point occurs at 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, where it hits a scorching 13. As the afternoon progresses, the index gently declines to 11 by 2:00 PM and gradually decreases to 5 by 4:00 PM. By evening, the UV exposure becomes minimal, dropping to 1 at 6:00 PM and settling at 0 by 7:00 PM. It's essential to take precautions during the peak hours to protect your skin from harmful UV rays!

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	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	13	extreme	10 min
14:00	11	extreme	10 min
15:00	8	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Makeni

The UV Index exhibits notable seasonal variations, peaking in the late summer and early autumn months. January and November show a very high risk with an index of 10, allowing for a burn time of 15 minutes. However, from February through October, the UV Index ranges between 11 and 14, indicating an extreme risk with a consistent burn time of only 10 minutes. Particularly high-risk months include March, April, May, June, July, August, September, and October, where exposure should be minimized. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take protective measures during these months, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, and seeking shade whenever possible, especially during midday hours.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Makeni, Sierra Leone

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Makeni 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.

Makeni'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	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