UV Index in Atar, Mauritania

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Atar, Mauritania, is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With its BWh climate, Atar can experience intense sun exposure, particularly during midday when UV levels can soar as high as 11, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Awareness of these UV levels empowers residents and visitors alike to take necessary precautions, such as applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours. By staying informed about local UV conditions, we can enjoy the sun safely while minimizing the risk of skin damage.

Hourly UV Index in Atar

The UV Index showcases a dynamic climb throughout the morning and early afternoon, starting at a gentle 1 at 07:00 and 08:00. As the sun rises higher, it peaks at an intense 11 between 12:00 and 13:00, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Following this midday surge, the index gradually declines, settling at 8 by 15:00, trailing off to a low of 1 by late evening. It's a clear reminder to stay protected during the peak hours, especially from 10:00 to 14:00, when UV levels can be most dangerous.

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	1	low	45 min
09:00	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	6	high	25 min
11:00	8	very high	15 min
12:00	11	extreme	10 min
13:00	11	extreme	10 min
14:00	10	very high	15 min
15:00	8	very high	15 min
16:00	5	moderate	30 min
17:00	2	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Atar

The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, with the highest values occurring from March to October, where it reaches an extreme level of 12-14 and a burn time as short as 10 minutes. The highest risk months are April and May, both showing a peak UV Index of 14, emphasizing the importance of sun protection during this period. In contrast, January and February start at a very high UV Index of 8-9, with slightly longer burn times of 15 minutes. As the year progresses into November and December, the UV Index lowers, with December presenting a high reading of 7 and a burn time of 25 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take safety precautions from March to October, including seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen frequently, especially during midday hours when the sun's rays are most intense.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Atar, Mauritania

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Atar. 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 Atar, 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 Atar UV Index with Other Mauritania Cities

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

Atar's solar exposure compared to other cities in Mauritania. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Nouadhibou UVI	7	9	11	13	13	12	10	11	12	10	8	7
Atar	8	9	12	14	13	13	11	13	13	11	9	7
Nouakchott UVI	8	9	12	13	13	13	12	12	14	11	9	8
Kaedi UVI	9	9	12	12	12	13	13	14	13	11	10	8
Nema UVI	9	11	12	14	13	12	12	13	12	11	10	9
Rosso UVI	9	10	12	13	13	13	13	13	14	12	10	8