Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Sitampiky, Madagascar, where the sun shines brightly in the tropical Aw climate. With UV levels peaking between 10 AM and 1 PM, it's essential to be aware of potential risks such as sunburn and long-term skin damage. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can take proactive steps to protect your skin and enjoy outdoor activities safely. In Sitampiky, where clouds are often scarce and the sun’s rays can be intense, being savvy about UV exposure can help you make informed decisions about sun protection and overall skin health.
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 |
The UV Index data reveals significant seasonal variations, with extreme exposure levels prevalent from January to April and again in August through November. The highest UV Index is recorded in January, February, and March at 16, indicating a critical need for sun protection as burn time is only 10 minutes. As we transition into spring and summer, the UV Index decreases slightly, reaching a maximum of 10 in May and 8-9 from June to July, still classified as very high. However, the risk escalates again in late summer and fall, especially in August and September, where the index returns to extreme levels. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during these high-risk months—wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, particularly during midday hours—to minimize skin damage and health risks associated with excessive UV exposure.
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 |
| Sitampiky | 16 | 16 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 14 | 15 |
| 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 |