UV Index in Freetown, Sierra Leone

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Freetown, Sierra Leone, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels can help you prevent painful sunburns and reduce the risk of long-term skin damage. With a tropical climate that experiences high UV exposure, particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM when the index peaks at a staggering 13, it’s essential for residents and visitors alike to stay informed and take necessary precautions. Embrace the sun safely by learning how to manage your sun exposure in this beautiful coastal city!

Hourly UV Index in Freetown

The UV Index reveals a dynamic exposure throughout the day, starting with a mild 1 at 07:00 and 08:00. As the sun climbs higher, the index surges to 3 by 09:00, then dramatically escalates to a peak of 12 at 12:00. The highest point occurs at 13:00, reaching an intense 13 — a reminder of the need for sun protection. As the afternoon progresses, the UV levels gradually decline, dipping back to 9 by 15:00 and further down to 3 by 17:00. The day concludes with a return to a low 1 by 18:00 and 19:00, making for a safe evening outdoors. Whether you’re planning a midday adventure or an evening stroll, being aware of these UV fluctuations is essential for skin safety!

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	13	extreme	10 min
14:00	12	extreme	10 min
15:00	9	very high	15 min
16:00	5	moderate	30 min
17:00	3	moderate	30 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Freetown

The UV Index fluctuates significantly throughout the year, with high-risk months typically spanning from February to October, when levels reach an extreme category (11–13). During these months, the recommended burn time drops to just 10 minutes, underscoring the necessity for sun protection. January and November reflect very high exposure levels (UV Index 10), allowing a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, especially between February and October, to minimize the risk of skin damage and ensure a safe outdoor experience.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Freetown, Sierra Leone

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Freetown 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.

Freetown'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	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
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