Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Ghardaia, Algeria, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. Understanding the daily UV levels can help residents and visitors alike protect themselves from harmful solar radiation, especially during peak hours when the index can reach a maximum of 11 around midday. With Ghardaia's arid BWh climate, characterized by intense sunlight, the risks associated with high UV exposure are significant. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the region's beautiful outdoors while safeguarding your skin.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins steadily climbing, starting at a mere 1 at 7:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it reaches a moderate 4, signaling more intense rays ahead. The peak arrives right at 12:00 PM, where the UV Index hits a sizzling 10, followed closely by a high of 11 at 1:00 PM—perfect times to seek shade and protect your skin. As the afternoon progresses, the numbers gently descend, dipping to 8 at 3:00 PM and eventually falling back to 1 by 7:00 PM. This hourly data paints a clear picture: mid-day offers the strongest sun exposure, making sun safety paramount during those crucial hours. Enjoy the sun, but stay protected!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal fluctuations, indicating varying levels of sun exposure risk. High-risk months for UV exposure occur from March to August, with peaks in May and June where the UV Index reaches 11-12, categorized as extreme, and the burn time is reduced to just 10 minutes. Conversely, from January to February and in October to November, the UV Index remains at moderate to high levels, allowing for longer burn times of 25-30 minutes. It is crucial for visitors and residents to exercise caution during the summer months, especially from April to August, by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize the risk of sunburn and skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Algiers UVI | 3 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 3 |
| Boumerdas UVI | 3 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 3 |
| Constantine UVI | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
| Oran UVI | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
| Tebessa UVI | 4 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Ghardaia | 4 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 6 | 4 |