Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Rotifunk, Sierra Leone is essential for safeguarding your skin and overall health. The UV Index indicates the strength of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, which can lead to sunburn and long-term skin complications if not properly managed. In Rotifunk's tropical Am climate, UV levels can soar, especially between 10 AM and 2 PM, reaching a peak of 12. This highlights the importance of being aware of UV levels to ensure you're taking the necessary precautions to protect yourself from excessive sun exposure. By staying informed, you can enjoy the beautiful Sierra Leonean sun while keeping your skin safe and healthy.
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, the UV Index experiences significant changes, peaking in the summer months and indicating a higher risk of skin damage. The high-risk months for UV exposure are from March to October, where the UV Index consistently reaches extreme levels of 11 to 13, with a rapid burn time of only 10 minutes. Specifically, May to September sees the highest UV levels, prompting precautionary measures. In contrast, November to February presents a marginal decrease, with UV Index values dropping back to 10, categorized as very high. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take protective actions, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, especially during the peak UV months, to reduce the risk of UV-related health issues.
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 |
Rotifunk | 10 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 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 |