Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Ar Riqqah, Kuwait, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet radiation. Understanding the UV levels can significantly help in preventing sunburn and maintaining long-term skin health, especially in a region characterized by a BWh climate, where intense sunlight can lead to elevated UV exposure risks. With peak UV Index values soaring to 10 between noon and early afternoon, it’s essential for residents and visitors alike to stay informed and take necessary precautions to enjoy the sun safely.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index begins at a mild 2 at 7:00 AM, slowly rising to reach a moderate 4 by 8:00 AM. The intensity climbs steadily, peaking at 10 by 11:00 AM and remaining at this maximum level until 12:00 PM. As the afternoon approaches, the index begins to decline, dropping to 9 at 1:00 PM, and back to 4 by 3:00 PM. By the time the sun sets, the UV Index decreases significantly to 1 at 5:00 PM and just 0 by 7:00 PM, making the early hours the most crucial for sun protection. Remember, while outdoor activities are enticing, being mindful of the UV levels is essential for skin safety!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
15:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index reflects significant seasonal changes in sun exposure. The high-risk months for UV radiation are March through October, peaking in May with an extreme UV Index of 11, resulting in a burn time of only 10 minutes. During this time, caution is crucial, as exposure even for a short duration can lead to skin damage. Visitors and residents are advised to take protective measures, such as wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, and protective clothing, especially during peak hours from 10 AM to 4 PM. As the UV levels drop in the winter months of November and December, with indices returning to moderate levels of 5 and 4 respectively, the need for intense sun protection decreases, although it remains important to be mindful of UV exposure year-round.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Al Fahahil UVI | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
Ar Riqqah | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
Al Farwaniyah UVI | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
Sabah as Salim UVI | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
Hawalli UVI | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
Al Ahmadi UVI | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 |