Last updated: August 1, 2025
In Ambatofinandrahana, Madagascar, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding skin health and preventing sunburn. With its mild climate characterized by a Cwb (temperate highland) zone, the city experiences varying UV levels throughout the day. From early morning to midday, UV radiation can peak at 8, highlighting the necessity of awareness, especially during outdoor activities. By staying informed about UV index readings, residents and visitors alike can better protect themselves from potential skin damage and enjoy the sunny splendor of Ambatofinandrahana responsibly.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a gentle 1 by 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it nudges up to 2, signaling a mild increase in UV exposure. The intensity heats up quickly, reaching a moderate 4 by 9:00 AM, before hitting its peak of 8 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. This is the prime time for sun safety awareness! After noon, the UV Index gradually declines; by 3:00 PM, it recedes to 3, and as the day wanes, it drops significantly to 1 by 4:00 PM. By evening, UV levels have diminished, reaching 0 by 6:00 PM, offering a reprieve from the sun’s rays.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 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 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index considerably fluctuates, with the most critical risk observed during the winter and spring months. From January to April, the UV Index remains extremely high, with consistent values of 17 to 12 and a rapid burn time of 10 minutes. As the seasons transition into May through August, the index drops slightly but remains in the very high category, dropping to 9 in May and then stabilizing around 8 and 10 in the following months, allowing for slightly longer exposure of 15 minutes. The autumn months bring another spike in risk, particularly in September, with the index returning to an extreme level of 12. It is essential for visitors and residents to exercise caution during these high-risk months, particularly from January to April and again in September. Sun protection measures, including sunscreen, protective clothing, and limited exposure during peak hours, are crucial to safeguard against potential skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toamasina UVI | 16 | 16 | 15 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 15 |
| Fianarantsoa UVI | 17 | 17 | 15 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 16 |
| Mahajanga UVI | 16 | 16 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 15 |
| Ambatofinandrahana | 17 | 17 | 15 | 12 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 16 |
| Antananarivo UVI | 17 | 17 | 15 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 16 |
| Antsirabe UVI | 17 | 17 | 16 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 16 |