Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Waddan, Libya, as it provides essential information about the sun’s intensity and the potential risks associated with UV exposure. With the climate classified as hot desert (BWh), Waddan experiences high levels of UV radiation, especially during the peak hours from late morning to early afternoon, when the index can reach a scorching 12. Awareness of UV levels not only aids in preventing sunburn but also promotes overall skin health, reducing the risk of long-term damage. By staying informed, you can enjoy the beautiful sunshine of Waddan while taking the necessary precautions to protect your skin.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off low at 1 by 07:00, gradually climbing to a moderate 2 by 08:00. Things heat up by 09:00, where the index reaches 4, signaling a need for caution. 10:00 brings a sharp surge to 7, followed by a peak of 12 at both 12:00 and 13:00, indicating high levels of UV radiation. As the afternoon unfolds, the index begins to dip, dropping to 11 at 14:00 and then gradually decreasing to 9 by 15:00. By 16:00, the value lowers to 6, and as evening approaches, the levels continue to decline, reaching 3 at 17:00 and finally settling back to 2 by 18:00 and 1 by 19:00. It's a day that emphasizes the importance of sun protection, especially during those peak hours between 10:00 and 14:00.
| 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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index shows significant seasonal changes, peaking during the summer months. Starting in January with a moderate UV index of 5, the risk escalates to very high levels by February and remains high through March. The most critical months for UV exposure are April to September, where the index reaches extreme levels of 11 to 13. Notably, April, May, June, July, August, and September carry a high risk, with a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes if not protected. It's important for visitors and residents to be particularly cautious during these months by using sun protection measures such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to reduce the risk of skin damage. As we transition into October and November, while the UV levels decrease, continued vigilance is advised, especially on sunny days, as the risk remains significant.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tripoli UVI | 4 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 4 |
| Al Khums UVI | 4 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 4 |
| Misratah UVI | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 4 |
| Benghazi UVI | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 4 |
| Tarhuna UVI | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 |
| Waddan | 5 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 5 |