Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Tsaratanana, Madagascar, where the sun can be both a blessing and a risk. With its tropical climate, this beautiful region experiences varying UV levels throughout the day, peaking in the early afternoon. By being aware of the UV Index, you can take vital steps to prevent sunburn and protect your skin health. For instance, during the hours when the index reaches 8 (10:00, 11:00, and 12:00), it's essential to seek shade, wear protective clothing, and apply sunscreen to mitigate the harmful effects of overexposure to the sun. Stay informed and enjoy the sunny delights of Tsaratanana safely!
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 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 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, UV Index levels exhibit significant fluctuations, peaking during the early months. High-risk months occur from January to April, when the UV Index remains at extreme levels (17-13) with a short burn time of just 10 minutes. As we transition into late spring and summer, the UV Index drops somewhat to very high levels (10-8) in May to July, extending the burn time to 15 minutes. Notably, the risk rises again in August and September with UV Index values climbing back to the extreme category. October through December also sees high UV levels, necessitating continued vigilance. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during all months, especially in high-risk periods, by wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen, and seeking shade to minimize UV exposure and 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 |
| Tsaratanana | 17 | 17 | 16 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 9 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 15 |
| Antsirabe UVI | 17 | 17 | 16 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 16 |