Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Mange, Sierra Leone, where the tropical climate and intense sunlight can lead to significant risks for skin health. With UV levels peaking at a high 12 during midday, it’s essential to be aware of these readings to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. By knowing when to seek shade and apply protection, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors while safeguarding your health. Be proactive about monitoring the UV Index in this sun-soaked region to make informed choices and stay safe under the Sierra Leone sun!
As the day unfolds, the UV Index presents a dynamic landscape of sun exposure. Starting with a gentle 1 at 07:00, it gradually rises, reaching a moderate 3 by 09:00. However, the sun's strength peaks dramatically, soaring to a 12 at 12:00 and hitting a maximum of 13 by 13:00. From there, it begins a steady decline, dropping to 9 at 15:00 and then tapering off into the evening, settling back to a safe 1 by 18:00. This hourly dance of UV radiation emphasizes the importance of sun protection, especially between 10:00 and 14:00 when the UV Index climbs to its most intense levels. Stay informed and take care when enjoying outdoor activities during these peak hours!
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 | 10 | very high | 15 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 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 |
Mange | 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 |