Last updated: June 2, 2025
Staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Tessalit, Mali, where the sun shines intensely due to its BWh climate. Understanding UV levels plays a vital role in preventing sunburn and promoting long-term skin health, as even moderate exposure can lead to harmful effects. With UV readings that peak at an alarming 11 around midday, it’s essential to be proactive about sun safety, especially given the region’s high-risk exposure during hot months. Being aware of these risks can help you enjoy Tessalit's sunny days while keeping your skin safe from the sun's damaging rays.
The UV Index peaks as the day progresses, beginning at a mild 2 at 07:00. By 09:00, it climbs to 6, reminding us to stay vigilant in the sun. The real intensity hits around 11:00, soaring to a blistering 10 and peaking at 12:00 with an impressive 11. As the afternoon rolls in, the index gradually decreases, descending to 8 by 14:00, and then to 5 at 15:00. As evening approaches, the UV threat diminishes significantly, dropping to 2 by 16:00. By the time the clock strikes 19:00, it falls to 0, signaling that the sun's rays are no longer a concern. Remember to protect your skin during those peak hours!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV index levels fluctuate significantly, with the highest risk months being from March to September, when the index consistently reaches extreme levels. Notably, April sees the peak UV index at 13, where the burn time is a mere 10 minutes. Following closely, February and May also present high risks, with indices of 10 and 12, respectively. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautionary measures during these months, such as using broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to mitigate the risk of UV exposure. As the year progresses into October and November, the UV levels drop to very high and high, suggesting a slight easing in risk, but awareness remains essential year-round for skin protection.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Tessalit | 8 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 11 | 9 | 9 | 7 |
Mopti UVI | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 9 |
Segou UVI | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 10 | 9 |
Bamako UVI | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 11 | 10 | 9 |
Koutiala UVI | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 10 |
Sikasso UVI | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 10 |