Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Mahalina, Madagascar, where the sun shines brightly throughout the year in an Aw climate. As UV levels can escalate rapidly—peaking at a striking 9 around midday—awareness of these levels is essential for preventing sunburn and promoting long-term skin health. With typical UV exposure risks looming in this tropical paradise, equipping yourself with knowledge about the UV Index can help you enjoy the stunning Malagasy landscape while protecting your skin from harmful rays. Stay informed and safe under the sun!
The UV Index shows an engaging fluctuation throughout the day, starting from a modest 1 at 7:00 AM, perfect for early risers who enjoy a gentle sun. As the hours progress, the index climbs steadily, reaching its peak at 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM with a striking 9, indicating intense exposure risk. Sun-seekers should take extra precautions during these hours. The intensity begins to wane by 3:00 PM, dropping to 3, and settles back down to 1 by 4:00 PM through 5:00 PM, eventually fading to 0 by 6:00 PM. This data underscores the importance of sun safety, especially during the midday hours when the sun is at its fiercest.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | 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 exhibits significant seasonal fluctuations. The highest UV levels, categorized as extreme, are observed from January to April and again in August and September, where the burn time is a concise 10 minutes. February and March maintain a consistent UV Index of 16, suggesting these are particularly high-risk months alongside December, which also shows a high reading of 15. From May to July, while UV exposure remains very high, the burn time extends slightly to 15 minutes. As such, it's crucial for both visitors and residents to take protective measures during these peak months, including applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize the risk of skin damage. Always remain vigilant, especially during the peak UV Index months, and prioritize your skin safety to enjoy the sunny days responsibly.
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 |
| Antsirabe UVI | 17 | 17 | 16 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 16 |
| Mahalina | 16 | 16 | 16 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 15 |