Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Zagora, Morocco, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin against harmful rays. Understanding UV levels is essential not only for preventing sunburn but also for long-term skin health, especially in a region known for its arid desert climate and high solar exposure. With UV Index values soaring to a maximum of 12 around midday, residents and visitors alike must stay informed about the risks associated with excessive sun exposure. By actively monitoring the UV Index, you can enjoy the sunny beauty of Zagora while safeguarding your skin from potential damage.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a modest 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it climbs to 3, a gentle increase hinting at the day ahead. The sun reaches its peak intensity at 12:00, with a striking 11 on the index, warning us to take precautions. The UV Index continues to hover at a high of 12 by 13:00, before gradually tapering off in the afternoon. By 17:00, it drops to 4, then further declines to 1 by 19:00, signaling the day's end. Stay protected during those midday hours to enjoy the sunshine safely!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 7 | 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
As the seasons transition, UV exposure levels can significantly vary, with high-risk months occurring from March to October, where the UV Index frequently reaches very high to extreme levels. Notably, May through August present the highest risk, with an extreme UV Index of 11 to 12 and a burn time of just 10 minutes. Conversely, January and December offer moderate exposure with a UV Index of 5, allowing for longer burn times of 30 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during peak UV months by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade during the sun's most intense hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. This awareness is crucial for minimizing sun damage and ensuring overall skin health throughout the year.
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 |
| Zagora | 5 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 5 |