Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Fes, Morocco, especially in a region known for its warm, Mediterranean climate (Csa). Sunburn prevention and maintaining healthy skin are essential, given the significant daily UV exposure, particularly during peak hours from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, when the index can soar to a high of 11. With typical UV levels often reaching critical thresholds, being informed about these risks helps ensure safe outdoor activities while enjoying the beautiful sunshine that Fes has to offer. Prioritize your skin health by keeping an eye on the UV Index—it’s your first line of defense against harmful solar radiation!
The UV Index for the day showcases a striking pattern, starting moderate at 7:00 AM with a value of 1. As the sun climbs higher, the index steadily rises, hitting 3 by 9:00 AM, and then surging to a peak of 11 between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM. This indicates a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure during midday. Following the peak, the UV Index gradually declines to 4 by 5:00 PM and further decreases to 1 by 7:00 PM, emphasizing the critical importance of sun protection during the intense midday hours. It’s advisable to seek shade and wear sunscreen if you're outside during the peak period!
| 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | 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 change, so does the UV Index, which significantly impacts sun exposure and risks for skin damage. January and February start with a moderate UV Index of 4 and 5 respectively, allowing for a burn time of 30 minutes. However, by March, the index spikes to 8, marking the beginning of very high exposure levels, with a reduced burn time of just 15 minutes. The months of April to July reach the extreme category, peaking at 12 in June, necessitating strict sun protection with a burn time as low as 10 minutes. As summer wanes into August and September, the index remains high, hovering around 10 to 9, before tapering off in October to a high level of 7 with a burn time of 25 minutes. Finally, November and December see a return to moderate levels. Residents and visitors should prioritize sun safety, especially during the high-risk months of March through September, by applying sunscreen frequently, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours to minimize harmful exposure.
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 | 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 |