Last updated: August 1, 2025
In Vohibinany, Madagascar, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful ultraviolet radiation. Understanding the UV levels throughout the day not only helps in preventing painful sunburns but also plays a vital role in long-term skin health. With a tropical wet climate that sees significant UV exposure—particularly peaking at levels 9 between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM—locals and visitors alike must take proactive measures to protect themselves from potential sun damage. Armed with knowledge about the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful Malagasy sun while keeping your skin safe.
The UV Index rises and falls dramatically throughout the day, showcasing how the sun's intensity varies with time. Starting at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM, it gradually climbs to reach a peak of 9 between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, where sun protection is crucial. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to dip — descending to 5 by 2:00 PM and tapering off to a safe 1 by 4:00 PM. Finally, the sun sets with the UV levels dropping to 0 after 6:00 PM, indicating it’s safe to enjoy the evening outdoors without worry. Stay vigilant during those midday hours to protect your skin!
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 |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels exhibit significant fluctuations, with the highest readings occurring from January to April, marked by an extreme category (UV Index 17-16) where the burn time is as little as 10 minutes. The high-risk months for UV exposure include January through April and August through November, where values remain in the extreme category. May to July sees slightly lower, yet still very high, UV levels (UV Index 10-8) with burn times extending to 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take necessary precautions during these high-risk periods, including wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to minimize the risk of 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 |
Antananarivo UVI | 17 | 17 | 15 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 16 |
Vohibinany | 17 | 17 | 16 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 15 |
Antsirabe UVI | 17 | 17 | 16 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 16 |