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.
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.
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 |
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.
UV Risk Categories
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 |