UV Index in Nouakchott, Mauritania

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Nouakchott, Mauritania, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. Understanding UV levels helps residents and visitors alike to take necessary precautions during peak sun hours, particularly when the index reaches dangerous levels of 11 and 12 around midday. With a BWh climate characterized by high temperatures and abundant sunshine, the risks of UV exposure can be significant. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, individuals can enjoy the sunny outdoors while protecting their skin from harmful effects.

Hourly UV Index in Nouakchott

Today’s UV Index presents a dynamic range of sunlight exposure, peaking dramatically during midday hours. Starting low at 1 around 07:00 and 08:00, the index begins to rise steadily, hitting 3 by 09:00. As the clock strikes 10:00, it surges to 6, but it’s the hours from 11:00 to 13:00 where caution is urged, peaking at a scorching 12 at 13:00. After this zenith, UV levels gradually decline, dropping to 9 at 15:00 and settling down to 1 by 18:00. Be sure to protect your skin during those high-index hours, particularly from 11:00 to 14:00 when UV radiation is at its most intense!

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	9	very high	15 min
12:00	11	extreme	10 min
13:00	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	11	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