UV Index in Timbuktu, Mali

Last updated: August 1, 2025

In Timbuktu, Mali, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With its hot BWh climate, residents and visitors face significant UV exposure, especially during peak hours when the index can soar to a staggering 13 around noon. Understanding these UV levels not only aids in taking proactive sun protection measures but also helps mitigate long-term skin damage. As you explore this historic city, stay informed about the UV Index to enjoy the sun safely!

Hourly UV Index in Timbuktu

At 07:00, the UV Index starts at a low 1, providing a gentle introduction to the day. As the sun climbs higher, the intensity begins to rise sharply, hitting 3 by 08:00 and reaching a notable 5 by 09:00. The real surge occurs between 10:00 and 12:00, where the UV Index soars from 9 to a peak of 13. The afternoon maintains this intensity, with 12 at 13:00 and gradually tapering off afterward. By 15:00, it dips to 7, then drops further to 4 by 16:00. As the sun sets, the UV Index returns to a lower level, sitting at 2 by 17:00, and finally tapering to 1 at 18:00, before completely fading to 0 by 19:00. This daily UV Index cycle highlights the importance of sun safety during peak hours!

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	6	high	25 min
10:00	9	very high	15 min
11:00	12	extreme	10 min
12:00	14	extreme	10 min
13:00	13	extreme	10 min
14:00	10	very high	15 min
15:00	7	high	25 min
16:00	4	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