Last updated: September 1, 2025
In the heart of Ankazoabo, Madagascar, being vigilant about the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding the daily fluctuations in UV levels, especially during peak hours, helps you take proactive measures against sunburn and long-term skin damage. With the region's Aw climate, residents and visitors face unique challenges regarding sun exposure, particularly between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, when the UV Index can soar to levels of 7. By staying informed about these critical UV conditions, you can enjoy the beautiful Malagasy sun safely and responsibly.
As the sun rises, the UV Index remains low at 1 from 07:00 to 08:00, offering a gentle start to the day. However, as the hours progress, the intensity increases, reaching 3 by 09:00 and peaking at 7 between 11:00 and 13:00. This midday surge signifies the sun's powerful rays, urging everyone to take precautions for skin protection. As the afternoon wanes, the UV Index begins to decline, dropping to 5 at 14:00, and further decreasing to 3 by 15:00. The evening brings relief, with the index falling to 1 by 16:00 and 0 from 18:00 onward. Embrace the early hours for outdoor activities, but stay vigilant during lunchtime when the sun is at its strongest!
| 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 | 10 | 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 |
The UV Index experiences significant fluctuations throughout the year, with high-risk months predominantly from January to April and again in September to November, where indices reach extreme levels, peaking at 17 in February and sustaining between 14 to 16 from October to December. During these periods, the recommended burn time is a mere 10 minutes, highlighting the urgent need for protective measures. As temperatures rise, May to August sees the index drop to 8-9, categorized as very high to high, allowing a slightly longer burn time of 15 to 25 minutes in June and July. Visitors and residents are advised to take extra precautions, especially during the extreme months, by applying high-SPF sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize exposure and avoid sunburn.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ankazoabo | 16 | 17 | 14 | 11 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 |
| 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 |
| 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 |