UV Index in Sumbuya, Sierra Leone

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Sumbuya, Sierra Leone is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful solar radiation. With peak UV levels reaching an intense 12 during midday, awareness of these fluctuations can help in preventing sunburn and ensuring long-term skin health. Sumbuya's warm climate, typical of the Am zone, means residents and visitors face heightened exposure risks, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM. Being informed about UV levels not only empowers individuals to take proactive measures but also enhances overall well-being while enjoying the abundant sunshine.

Hourly UV Index in Sumbuya

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 Sumbuya

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 Sumbuya, Sierra Leone

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Sumbuya 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.

Sumbuya'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
Sumbuya	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