Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Pujehun, Sierra Leone, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health against harmful ultraviolet rays. With peak UV levels reaching as high as 13 between noon and early afternoon, understanding these numbers can help you prevent sunburn and reduce long-term skin damage. Pujehun's tropical climate means residents and visitors alike face unique UV exposure risks, especially during the hottest hours. By staying informed and taking protective measures, you can enjoy the sun safely while protecting your skin—because knowledge is your first line of defense against UV harm.
The UV Index today showcases a dramatic rise as the sun reaches its peak. Starting at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM, it climbs steadily to a moderate 4 by 9:00 AM, before soaring to an intense 10 at 11:00 AM. The highest point occurs at 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, where it hits a scorching 13. As the afternoon progresses, the index gently declines to 11 by 2:00 PM and gradually decreases to 5 by 4:00 PM. By evening, the UV exposure becomes minimal, dropping to 1 at 6:00 PM and settling at 0 by 7:00 PM. It's essential to take precautions during the peak hours to protect your skin from harmful UV rays!
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 | 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 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV exposure varies significantly, with the highest levels recorded from February to October. During this period, the UV Index reaches extremes of 11 to 13, which corresponds to an extreme exposure category and a minimal burn time of just 10 minutes for unprotected skin. The months of February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, and October are particularly high-risk, necessitating heightened awareness and protection against UV radiation. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to wear sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing, especially during these peak months. In contrast, January, November, and December show a decrease in the UV Index to 10, categorized as very high, allowing for slightly longer exposure times of 15 minutes before skin damage may occur. However, caution should still be exercised during these 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 |
Pujehun | 10 | 11 | 12 | 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 |