Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Tintafor, Sierra Leone, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful ultraviolet radiation. Understanding UV levels not only helps in preventing painful sunburns but also plays a vital role in maintaining long-term skin health. Given Tintafor's tropical climate, residents and visitors alike face heightened exposure to UV rays, especially during midday hours when the index can peak at a dangerous level of 12. By monitoring the UV Index, you can make informed decisions about sun protection and enjoy your time outdoors safely.
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!
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 |
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.
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 |
Tintafor | 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 |