UV Index in Sawkta, Sierra Leone

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Sawkta, Sierra Leone is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With the region’s tropical climate, prolonged exposure to the sun can significantly increase the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. The UV levels can fluctuate throughout the day, peaking at a dangerous 12 between noon and 1 PM, making awareness and protection essential. By monitoring the UV Index, residents and visitors alike can take proactive measures to enjoy the beautiful sunny days while minimizing risks to their skin health.

Hourly UV Index in Sawkta

The UV Index data for the day reveals a clear pattern of increasing intensity as the sun climbs higher in the sky. Starting at a low of 1 during the early morning hours (07:00 and 08:00), the index begins a steep ascent, reaching 3 by 09:00. The sun’s power peaks impressively at 12 from 12:00 to 13:00, indicating a critical time for sun safety. As the afternoon wanes, the index gradually declines, falling to 8 by 15:00 and dropping further to 1 by the evening (18:00 to 19:00). To protect your skin during the day, be mindful of the high UV levels between 11:00 and 14:00!

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	1	low	45 min
09:00	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	6	high	25 min
11:00	9	very high	15 min
12:00	12	extreme	10 min
13:00	12	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	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Sawkta

Throughout the year, UV levels exhibit significant seasonal changes, with highest intensity found from March to October. This period is particularly concerning, as the UV Index peaks at 14 in September and reaches extreme levels of 13 in May, July, and August. January and February show a very high index of 10, while November and December return to a similar high-risk level with indexes of 10 and 9, respectively. Visitors and residents should take precautions during these high-risk months, such as seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen regularly, especially during the peak hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. to avoid severe sunburn and long-term skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Sawkta, Sierra Leone

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Sawkta 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.

Sawkta'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
Sawkta	10	10	11	12	13	12	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