Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Ghaxaq, Malta, where the sun shines brightly, especially during the summer months. With its Csa climate, characterized by hot, dry summers, the UV levels can reach dangerously high values, peaking at 9 between noon and 2 PM. Being aware of these levels is essential for sunburn prevention and maintaining long-term skin health. By learning how to protect yourself from UV rays, you can enjoy the glorious Maltese sun while minimizing the risks of skin damage.
As the sun rises, the UV Index gradually climbs, peaking at 9 around 12:00 PM. The morning starts off gently, with a maximum of 1 at 7:00 AM and reaching 2 by 8:00 AM. By 10:00 AM, it surges to 5, transitioning into the more intense rays of midday. Hours between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM showcase the highest exposure, consistently hitting 9, urging outdoor enthusiasts to take precautions. As the afternoon wanes, the index gently descends, decreasing to 7 by 3:00 PM and tapering off to 1 by the evening hours, reminding us that while the sun is powerful at its peak, it also retreats gracefully. Enjoy your day under the sun, but don’t forget your sunscreen during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, seasonal changes in UV Index highlight varying risks of sun exposure. High-risk months are particularly evident from April to July, with the UV Index peaking at 11 in July, categorizing it as extreme; during this time, burn time is significantly reduced to just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should remain vigilant, especially between March and September when the UV Index frequently reaches high to very high levels. It is recommended to take protective measures such as applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to minimize skin damage. Conversely, from October to February, the UV Index drops to moderate levels, allowing for longer safe exposure times of 30 minutes in January and November. However, caution is still advised during sunny days.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Pawl il-Bahar UVI | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 3 |
| Zabbar UVI | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 3 |
| Mosta UVI | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 3 |
| Qormi UVI | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 3 |
| Birkirkara UVI | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 3 |
| Ghaxaq | 4 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |