Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Kent, Sierra Leone is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn, especially in a region characterized by a tropical climate. With peak UV levels reaching as high as 13 during midday hours, awareness of these risks can safeguard you and your loved ones from harmful effects of overexposure to the sun. By monitoring the UV Index, you can make informed decisions about outdoor activities and sun protection, ensuring enjoyable days under the sun while minimizing the potential for skin damage. Stay informed and protect your skin in Kent's vibrant sunshine!
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!
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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
11:00 | 10 | 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 |
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.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Kent | 10 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 9 |
Freetown UVI | 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 |