UV Index in Nouakchott, Mauritania

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Nouakchott, Mauritania, where the sun shines brightly throughout the year. Knowing the UV levels can help prevent sunburn and protect your skin health, particularly in a climate characterized by high temperatures and intense sunlight. With UV Index values often reaching a peak of 12 around midday, awareness of the risks associated with prolonged sun exposure is essential. Stay informed and enjoy the summer while taking the necessary precautions to guard against harmful UV rays!

Hourly UV Index in Nouakchott

The UV Index today showcases a dramatic rise in sun exposure as the day progresses. Starting at 7:00 AM with a mild value of 1, the index climbs steadily to reach 4 by 9:00 AM. However, it's around 11:00 AM that the UV radiation peaks at 10, escalating further to a maximum of 12 at noon. The sun’s intensity continues to be fierce, reaching a high of 13 by 1:00 PM before gradually tapering off. From 2:00 PM, the index starts its descent, hovering at 12 and then dropping to 9 by 3:00 PM. As the afternoon transitions into evening, the UV levels diminish significantly, resting at 1 by 7:00 PM. For anyone spending time outdoors, taking precautions during the peak hours is crucial to ensure safety from harmful UV rays.

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	2	low	45 min
09:00	4	moderate	30 min
10:00	7	high	25 min
11:00	10	very high	15 min
12:00	12	extreme	10 min
13:00	13	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	1	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Nouakchott

The UV Index experiences significant seasonal changes, peaking from March through October, with September recording the highest value at 14 (extreme exposure) and only dropping to a very high level in November and December. The highest risk months for UV exposure are from March to October, where the UV Index consistently shows extreme levels (mostly at 12 or 13), requiring caution with a burn time of just 10 minutes. Residents and visitors should take essential precautions during these months, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. In January and February, while still very high, the burn time increases to 15 minutes, allowing for slightly more exposure, yet it remains critical to remain vigilant.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Nouakchott, Mauritania

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Nouakchott 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.

Nouakchott'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
Nouakchott	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