UV Index in Potoru, Sierra Leone

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Potoru, Sierra Leone, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining your skin health and preventing sunburn, especially with the region's tropical climate that often leads to high UV exposure. Understanding the daily fluctuations in UV levels can help you make informed decisions about sun safety, particularly when the index reaches a peak of 12 during midday hours, signaling an extreme risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By being mindful of these levels, you can enjoy the beautiful sun-soaked days while safeguarding your skin against potential damage. Whether planning outdoor activities or simply relaxing under the sun, knowledge of the UV Index is essential for every Potoru resident.

Hourly UV Index in Potoru

The hourly UV Index data reveals a dramatic rise in UV intensity throughout the morning, beginning at a mere 1 at 07:00. As the sun climbs higher, it peaks at an intense 12 between 12:00 and 13:00, signaling the highest risk for UV exposure during this period. The index begins to decline in the afternoon, dropping to 8 by 15:00, before tapering off to a low of 0 by 19:00. This pattern highlights the importance of sun protection in the mid-day hours, especially from 11:00 to 13:00, when UV levels are at their most hazardous. Stay safe and protect your skin during those peak hours!

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	6	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 Potoru

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 Potoru, Sierra Leone

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Potoru 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.

Potoru'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
Potoru	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