Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Ambalavao, Madagascar is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With the potential for significant sun exposure, especially during the midday hours when UV levels peak at 7, being aware of these levels can help prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. The region's Cfb climate, characterized by mild summers and cooler winters, still poses UV risks, particularly during the sunny months. By staying informed about local UV conditions, residents and visitors can enjoy the beautiful outdoors while safeguarding their skin.
The UV Index data paints a clear picture of how exposure to ultraviolet rays varies throughout the day. Starting at a low level of 1 at 07:00, the index gradually climbs to peak at 7 from 11:00 to 12:00, indicating the times when sun protection is most crucial. As the afternoon progresses, the index dips to 6 at 13:00, then gently declines to 4 by 14:00. The evening hours see a significant drop, with values falling to 2 at 15:00 and retreating to 1 at 16:00. By nightfall, the UV Index drops to 0 from 18:00 onward, signalling a safe time for outdoor activities without the need for sun protection. Enjoy the sunshine, but be mindful of the peak hours!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
13:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
14:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
15:00 | 2 | low | 45 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 experiences significant seasonal variation, with extreme levels persisting from January to April and a noticeable decline as summer approaches. The months of May, July, and August see a jumping from very high to high exposure categories, indicating a mild shift in UV intensity. September through November return to the extreme levels, before tapering off slightly in December. The high-risk months for UV exposure are January through April, and again from September to November, where the burn time is notably short at 10 minutes. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to take protective measures during these periods, such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and long sleeves to minimize skin damage from the sun's intense rays.
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 |
Ambalavao | 17 | 17 | 15 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 16 |
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 |