Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for those living in or visiting Roches Noire, Mauritius, where the tropical climate brings varying sun exposure throughout the day. The UV Index serves as a critical tool for sunburn prevention and skin health, guiding you on when to seek shade or apply sunscreen to minimize the risk of skin damage. With UV levels peaking around 12 PM, reaching as high as 9, it is vital to stay informed about daily UV fluctuations to protect yourself during outdoor activities. Be aware—your skin’s well-being could depend on it!
The UV index throughout the day exhibits a dynamic rise and fall, reflecting the sun's intensity. At 07:00, the index starts low at 1, gradually climbing to 2 by 08:00. By 09:00, it reaches a moderate 4, but excitement peaks at 12:00 with a striking 9, indicating a high risk for unprotected skin. The intensity tapers down after this noon pinnacle—falling to 8 at 13:00, then 6 at 14:00. As afternoon turns to evening, the index diminishes significantly, settling at 4 by 15:00, dropping to 2 at 16:00, and finally winding down to 1 by 17:00. As the sun sets, the index recedes completely, hitting 0 by 18:00, leaving a tranquil end to the day. Remember, during peak times, sun protection is crucial!
| 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index experiences significant seasonal variations, peaking in the early months of the year. From January to April, the UV Index remains at an extreme level, ranging from 16 to 12, with a minimal burn time of just 10 minutes. As we transition into late spring and summer, the UV Index slightly decreases, reaching a very high level of 9 in May and fluctuating between 7 to 10 in June to August, resulting in burn times of 15 to 25 minutes. However, the risk remains elevated, with September to December witnessing a return to extreme levels once again, particularly in November at 14. Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious during the high-risk months of January to April and September to November, ensuring they take appropriate sun safety measures, such as wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and limiting direct sun exposure during peak hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Quatre Bornes UVI | 16 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 |
| Curepipe UVI | 16 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 |
| Vacoas UVI | 16 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 |
| Beau Bassin-Rose Hill UVI | 16 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 |
| Port Louis UVI | 16 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 |
| Roches Noire | 16 | 17 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 |