Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Sidon, Lebanon, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health from harmful ultraviolet rays. With Sidon’s Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, sunny summers, UV exposure can peak significantly throughout the day, reaching a maximum index of 10 around noon. Being aware of the UV levels helps you take necessary precautions to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. With the UV Index fluctuating from a low of 1 in the early morning to a peak of 10 in the early afternoon, knowing when to seek shade and apply sunscreen is essential for safe outdoor activities in this beautiful coastal city.
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 vary significantly, reflecting seasonal changes that impact sun exposure. The high-risk months are primarily from April to August, where UV Index levels reach extremes, especially in June and July with an index of 11, significantly reducing safe exposure time to just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should be particularly vigilant during these months, utilizing sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade when necessary. In contrast, the UV Index is lower from November to March, with January and December experiencing a moderate category, making sun protection less critical but still advisable for prolonged exposure. Overall, being aware of the UV Index and adjusting sun safety practices accordingly can help mitigate the risks associated with UV radiation.
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 | 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 |