Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors to Ouarzazat, Morocco, where the warm, dry climate (classified as BWh) can lead to high levels of sun exposure. Being informed about UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburn but also plays a critical role in maintaining skin health over time. Throughout the day, UV radiation can peak sharply, especially between 11 AM and 2 PM, reaching alarming levels of up to 13. This makes it vital to take precautions such as wearing protective clothing and applying sunscreen to safeguard yourself against potential harm from the sun's rays. Stay informed and enjoy the stunning Moroccan landscape safely!
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off low at 1 during the early hours, making it a safe time for outdoor activities. However, by 09:00, it ramps up to 3, signaling the need for precaution. The peak intensity is reached at 12:00 with a staggering 11, emphasizing the importance of sun protection. It remains intense until 13:00, where it peaks at 13 before gradually beginning to decline. By the late afternoon, the index drops to 5 by 17:00, and cools down to 1 by 19:00. This day illustrates the critical window for sun safety, especially from 10:00 to 15:00, when the UV risks are significantly heightened. Stay protected and enjoy the sunshine wisely!
| 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 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 16:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | 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 that pose varying levels of risk for sun exposure. High-risk months include March through August, where the UV Index peaks at 13 in June, indicating an extreme level of risk with an advised burn time of just 10 minutes. Residents and visitors should take precautions during these months, such as wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours. In contrast, the UV Index is moderate in January and December, rising to high in February and November, but caution is still warranted. Stay informed and protect your skin year-round as the UV levels fluctuate with the seasons.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Casablanca UVI | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Sale UVI | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Rabat UVI | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Fes UVI | 4 | 5 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Marrakesh UVI | 4 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 5 |
| Ouarzazat | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 5 |