UV Index in Timbuktu, Mali

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Timbuktu, Mali is crucial for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn. With its BWh climate characterized by long, hot, and sunny days, Timbuktu experiences significant UV exposure, especially during the peak hours from 10 AM to 2 PM when the UV Index can soar to 11. By staying informed about the daily UV levels, you can take proactive measures to protect yourself and your loved ones from the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation. Whether you’re exploring the historical sites or simply enjoying the sun, being UV aware is your best defense against skin damage.

Hourly UV Index in Timbuktu

From 07:00 to 19:00, the UV Index showcases a definitive pattern, peaking dramatically around 12:00. Starting with a gentle 1 at dawn, the index climbs steadily, reaching 5 by 09:00 and hitting 10 by 11:00. The sun is at its fiercest between 12:00 and 13:00, where it reaches an intense 11, emphasizing the need for sun protection during these hours. As the day progresses, the UV Index begins to taper off, dropping to 8 at 14:00, followed by a decline to 6 by 15:00, and finally falling back to 1 by 17:00. As evening settles in at 19:00, the UV Index drops to 0, marking the end of a high-risk day for sun exposure.

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
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	11	extreme	10 min
14:00	8	very high	15 min
15:00	6	high	25 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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Timbuktu

The UV Index experiences significant seasonal fluctuations, with the highest levels occurring from February to August. During these months, particularly in April and August, the index peaks at 14 and falls within the extreme exposure category, necessitating a burn time of only 10 minutes. January and November present lower UV levels, with indices of 9, classified as very high and allowing for a burn time of 15 minutes. From September to October, the UV Index remains in the extreme category at 11, emphasizing the need for continued sun protection. Residents and visitors should prioritize skin safety by applying sunscreen and wearing protective clothing, especially during the high-risk months of February through October, when UV radiation is at its most intense.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Timbuktu, Mali

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Timbuktu. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Timbuktu, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Timbuktu UV Index with Other Mali Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Timbuktu compares to other major locations across Mali. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Timbuktu's solar exposure compared to other cities in Mali. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Timbuktu	9	11	12	14	13	11	13	14	13	11	9	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