Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Nouadhibou, Mauritania, where the sun's rays can be particularly intense due to its BWh climate. As you soak in the sun, being aware of UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and maintaining long-term skin health. During peak sun hours, particularly between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM when the UV Index can soar to levels 11 and 12, the risk of harmful exposure significantly increases. By monitoring the UV Index, you can enjoy Nouadhibou's beautiful coastal scenery while staying protected from its strong sun.
The UV Index today showcases a dramatic rise and fall throughout the day, starting at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM and gradually ramping up as the sun climbs higher in the sky. By 11:00 AM, it peaks at a striking 9, reaching a blistering 11 at 12:00 PM, and hitting its pinnacle at 12 by 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM. As the afternoon wanes, the intensity starts to decline, dropping to 9 at 3:00 PM, before tapering down to a more manageable 6 at 4:00 PM. By evening, the index settles back down to 3 at 5:00 PM, and later retreats to 1 by 7:00 PM. For outdoor enthusiasts, it’s crucial to take precautions during peak hours to prevent sunburn and stay safe in the sun’s rays!
| 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, with the highest levels occurring from March to September. During these months, UV exposure is categorized as extreme, peaking at 13 in April and May, while February and August also reach extreme levels of 9 and 11, respectively. High-risk months include March, April, May, and June, where the burn time is just 10 minutes, indicating a critical need for sun protection. Residents and visitors are advised to take precautions during these periods by applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, particularly between 10 AM and 4 PM, when UV radiation is strongest. As the year progresses toward October and November, while the UV Index remains elevated at 10 and 8, respectively, the burn time increases to 15 minutes, still necessitating vigilance against overexposure to sunlight.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nouadhibou | 7 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 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 |