Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Gourma Rharous, Mali, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. Understanding daily UV levels helps residents and visitors alike take the necessary precautions during peak sunlight hours, particularly when levels soar to a maximum of 11 around midday. Given Gourma Rharous's arid BWh climate, where intense sun exposure is a common risk, staying informed about UV radiation can safeguard against potential skin damage. Protecting yourself from harmful rays not only preserves skin integrity but also contributes to overall well-being, making UV awareness an essential part of daily life in this vibrant region.
At dawn, the UV Index starts off low at 1 by 7:00 AM, but as the day unfolds, it quickly rises. By 10:00 AM, it hits 8, reaching peak intensity at noon with an index of 11. As the afternoon progresses, the UV levels begin to drop, stabilizing at 10 shortly after noon before gently declining to 5 by 3:00 PM. The sun’s influence wanes further as evening approaches, tapering down to 1 by 5:00 PM and finally dissipating to 0 by 7:00 PM. This fluctuation highlights the importance of sun protection during peak hours, especially between 10 AM and 2 PM when UV exposure is at its highest.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index shows significant seasonal variations, peaking during the spring and summer months. The highest risk months are March through September, where UV Index levels reach extreme values of 12 to 14, with a burn time as short as 10 minutes. It's essential for both visitors and residents to take precautions during this period, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, and seeking shade whenever possible. As UV levels begin to decrease in the fall and winter months, the index remains at very high levels in January, October, November, and December, with a burn time of 15 minutes. Care should still be taken year-round to protect against UV exposure, particularly during midday hours.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Gourma Rharous | 9 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 8 |
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 |