UV Index in Palima, Sierra Leone

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Being aware of the UV Index is crucial for residents of Palima, Sierra Leone, where the tropical climate brings with it significant sun exposure risks. Understanding UV levels is not just about preventing sunburn; it plays a vital role in maintaining long-term skin health. With peak UV readings soaring to 12 during midday hours, it’s essential for the community to recognize the potential hazards and take protective measures. Given Palima's typically warm climate, residents should stay informed and vigilant about UV exposure to safeguard their well-being.

Hourly UV Index in Palima

As the sun rises, the UV Index remains low, starting at 1 between 07:00 and 08:00. However, by 09:00, it climbs to 4, hinting at a more intense day ahead. The peak arrives at 12:00, where it reaches a blistering 12, indicating a significant risk for unprotected skin. This high level of UV exposure persists through the early afternoon, maintaining 12 until 13:00, before gradually tapering off to 11 at 14:00. As the day wanes, the index declines to 8 at 15:00, 5 at 16:00, and finally settles back to 1 by 18:00. Thankfully, by 19:00, it drops to 0, signaling a safe end to sun exposure. Plan your day wisely to dodge those midday 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	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	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	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Palima

The UV Index exhibits significant variations throughout the year, with the highest levels observed in the spring and summer months. From February to October, the indices range from 11 to 13, categorizing these months as having extreme exposure risks, resulting in a burn time of just 10 minutes for unprotected skin. Particularly high-risk months are March, April, May, August, and September, where the UV index peaks at 13. Conversely, the winter months of January, November, and December present a slightly lower risk, classified as very high, but still necessitate caution, with a burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to protect their skin by wearing sunscreen, hats, and clothing that offers UV protection, especially during the high-risk months. Regular checks of the UV index are recommended to ensure safe outdoor activities.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Palima, Sierra Leone

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Palima 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.

Palima'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
Palima	10	11	11	13	13	12	12	13	13	12	10	10
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