Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Mafraq, Jordan, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. The UV Index indicates the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, and understanding these levels can be instrumental in preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage. With Mafraq’s BSk climate, characterized by hot, dry summers, residents and visitors alike should be especially mindful of peak UV times, when levels can soar to a staggering 13 around noon. By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, you can enjoy the sun safely while safeguarding your skin's health.
At 07:00 AM, the UV Index starts off low at 1, making it a safe time for early risers. As the sun ascends, the index rises steadily, reaching 3 by 08:00 AM. By 09:00 AM, it climbs to 6, indicating that sun protection becomes increasingly important. The real surge occurs from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, where the UV Index peaks significantly at 9 and then hits its maximum of 13 at 12:00 PM—a crucial window for being mindful of sun exposure. The intensity begins to taper off after 13:00 PM, dropping to 11 at 14:00 PM, and further declining to 8 by 15:00 PM. As the day winds down, the UV index falls to 5 at 16:00 PM, then further dwindles to 3 by 17:00 PM, and returns to a safe 1 by 18:00 PM, finally settling at 1 again by 19:00 PM. For those spending time outdoors, it's vital to take precautions during the peak hours when the UV Index is at its highest!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 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 |
As the seasons change, so do the levels of UV radiation, with significant fluctuations throughout the year. The high-risk months typically occur from March to August, where the UV Index reaches explosive levels, peaking at UV Index 13 in June. During these months, exposure times can decrease dramatically, with a burn time as short as 10 minutes for extreme categories. Residents and visitors should be particularly vigilant during this period, utilizing sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours. September through November still presents moderate risks, while January and December are notably safer months, characterized by a moderate UV Index and longer burn times. It's essential for everyone in the area to stay informed and protect their skin, especially during peak UV months.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Irbid UVI | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 4 |
| Wadi as Sir UVI | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 4 |
| Russeifa UVI | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 |
| Zarqa UVI | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 |
| Amman UVI | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 |
| Mafraq | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 |