Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Zahle, Lebanon, especially given the high levels of UV exposure typically experienced in the region. With summer sunlight that can reach a peak index of 13 during midday hours, awareness of UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. Zahle's Csb climate brings warm summers and significant UV risks that can lead to long-term skin damage if precautions are not taken. Stay informed about the UV Index to enjoy the outdoors safely while keeping your skin in top condition!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, peaking at an impressive 13 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, signaling a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Early risers are greeted with a moderate level of 1 at 7:00 AM, but by 10:00 AM, the intensity ramps up to 9. The index stays strong through midday, hitting its maximum of 11 at 11:00 AM before stabilizing at 13 for two hours. As the afternoon progresses, it gradually declines, dropping to 8 by 3:00 PM and winding down to a safer 1 as the sun sets at 6:00 PM. This data underscores the critical importance of sun protection during peak hours to stay safe under the radiant sun.
| 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 | 11 | 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 UV levels, which peak in the summer months. January sees a moderate UV Index of 5, but by February, it rises to 6, indicating high risk. The most critical months for UV exposure are March through August, where the index reaches extreme levels, peaking at 13 in June. During these high-risk months, burn times decrease significantly to as little as 10 minutes. Conversely, September to December presents a gradual decline in risk, with November returning to a moderate level of 5. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to take precautionary measures during the peak months, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, particularly between 10 AM and 4 PM, to mitigate the risks of UV exposure.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tripoli UVI | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 3 |
| Sidon UVI | 4 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
| Beirut UVI | 4 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 3 |
| Tyre UVI | 4 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Nabatiye et Tahta UVI | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 4 |
| Zahle | 5 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 5 | 4 |