Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Smala, Algeria is essential for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn, especially given the region's Mediterranean climate. With UV levels peaking at 10 during midday, it's crucial for residents and visitors to be aware of their exposure risks. By knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen, you can protect yourself from harmful ultraviolet rays. As Smala enjoys plenty of sunshine throughout the year, staying informed about the UV Index not only enhances your outdoor activities but also promotes long-term skin health.
As the sun rises, the UV Index gradually climbs, starting at a modest 1 at 7:00 AM and reaching an energetic 2 by 8:00 AM. The intensity escalates quickly, peaking at a robust 10 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM—the ideal time to take extra sun safety precautions! By 2:00 PM, the index begins its gentle decline, settling to 9 at 2:00 PM, and gradually tapering off to a more manageable 3 by 5:00 PM. As evening approaches, the index dwindles to 1 by 6:00 PM, allowing for a calm end to the day. Remember, during peak hours, it’s crucial to protect your skin to enjoy the sunshine safely!
| 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 | 8 | 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 | 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 experiences significant seasonal changes, peaking during the summer months. From January to February, UV levels are moderate, with a burn time of 30 minutes. As spring arrives in March, the UV Index elevates to 8 (very high), reducing burn time to 15 minutes, and it continues to climb, reaching a peak of 12 in June (extreme), where the burn time shortens to just 10 minutes. The danger remains high in July and August, with UV levels at 11 and 10, respectively. September sees a slight drop, but still advises caution with a UV Index of 8. As fall approaches in October, levels decrease to 7 (high), permitting a burn time of 25 minutes, before returning to moderate levels in the winter months of November and December. Residents and visitors should remain vigilant from March through August, as these are the high-risk months for UV exposure, and it is recommended to use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during peak sun hours.
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 |
| Smala | 3 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
| Tebessa UVI | 4 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 |