Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Fenoarivo Atsinanana, Madagascar, a region characterized by its tropical climate. With peak UV levels reaching 8 around midday, being aware of this index is essential for protecting your skin from sunburn and long-term damage. High UV exposure not only increases the risk of painful sunburns but also contributes to skin health issues over time. As this coastal area enjoys abundant sunshine, knowing how to manage your time outdoors based on the UV Index can help you enjoy the beauty of Madagascar while safeguarding your skin. Remember, when the UV Index rises, so should your sun protection efforts!
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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 1 | 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 fluctuates significantly, with extreme exposure levels observed from January to April, and again in August to November. The highest risk months are January through April and August through November, all registering UV Index values of 12 or higher. Notably, January and February peak at an index of 17, necessitating cautious outdoor activities, as burn time is just 10 minutes during these months. As residents and visitors prepare for outdoor activities, it is crucial to apply broad-spectrum sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade, especially during peak UV times. In May and June, while the UV Index decreases to 9 and 8 respectively, caution is still advised, with burn times increasing to 15 minutes. Overall, awareness and protection are essential year-round, particularly in high-risk months.
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 |
| Fenoarivo Atsinanana | 17 | 17 | 15 | 12 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 11 | 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 |
| 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 |