Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Hassi Messaoud, Algeria, where intense sunlight is a hallmark of the local BWh climate. With UV levels soaring to a maximum of 10 during midday, being aware of these readings can significantly aid in sunburn prevention and maintaining long-term skin health. As the sun peeks above the horizon, it's essential to recognize the risks associated with high UV exposure, especially from 10 AM to 2 PM, when the sun's rays are at their strongest. Stay informed and protect your skin while enjoying the sunny outdoor activities that Hassi Messaoud has to offer!
The UV Index throughout the day showcased a dynamic shift, peaking remarkably at 10 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, indicating an intense level of sun exposure. Starting the day gently, with a low of 1 at 7:00 AM, the UV levels gradually rose, creeping toward 9 by 11:00 AM, before hitting a sky-high 10 at midday. This high UV reading persisted for an hour, encouraging sun safety measures such as seeking shade or applying sunscreen. As the afternoon wore on, the index dipped to 7 at 3:00 PM, eventually declining through the evening, settling back down to 1 by 7:00 PM. Overall, it's a vivid reminder of how the sun's intensity can vary dramatically, urging outdoor enthusiasts to stay vigilant during peak hours.
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV index levels fluctuate significantly, with the highest risk occurring during the spring and summer months. Notably, March to August see particularly high values, peaking in June at an extreme UV Index of 12, where the burn time is as short as 10 minutes. The high-risk months where exposure is most dangerous are from March to August, categorized as either very high or extreme. It is crucial for both visitors and residents to take precautions during these months, such as using broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours, to help mitigate the risk of skin damage. As the seasons transition to fall and winter, both the UV index and exposure risks decrease significantly, allowing for safer outdoor activities.
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 |
| Hassi Messaoud | 4 | 6 | 9 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 |