UV Index in Pujehun, Sierra Leone

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Pujehun, Sierra Leone is essential for protecting your skin and overall health. The UV Index serves as a crucial guide to the intensity of ultraviolet radiation, which peaks during the midday hours and can lead to painful sunburns and long-term skin damage if precautions aren’t taken. In Pujehun's tropical climate, where UV levels can rise to a staggering 12 around noon, being aware of these levels is vital for sun safety. Stay informed and take steps to shield yourself from harmful UV rays to maintain healthy skin while enjoying the warm sun.

Hourly UV Index in Pujehun

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins to climb steadily. Starting at a mere 1 at 07:00, it remains low until 09:00 when it jumps to 3. However, by 10:00, the index surges to 6, signaling that it’s time to protect your skin. The peak occurs at 12:00 and 13:00, reaching an intense 12—a time when sun safety is critical. From there, the numbers start to wane; 11:00 sees a 9, and by 15:00, it drops to 8. The afternoon offers relief as the index lowers to 2 by 17:00, and settles back to 1 at 18:00, before fading to 0 by 19:00. This hourly journey highlights the importance of being sun-aware during 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	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	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Pujehun

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Pujehun, Sierra Leone

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Pujehun 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.

Pujehun'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
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