Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Matmata, Morocco, where the sun shines brightly in a Mediterranean climate. With peak UV levels reaching as high as 11 in the early afternoon, awareness of these fluctuations is key to preventing sunburn and protecting your skin health. By grasping the implications of UV exposure, you can better safeguard yourself against harmful effects, ensuring your time spent exploring this unique region is both enjoyable and safe. Remember, even on overcast days, UV rays can penetrate the clouds, making vigilance essential in this sunny locale!
As the day begins, the UV Index starts off at a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, gradually rising to moderate levels by 8:00 AM with a value of 3. By 9:00 AM, the sun becomes more assertive, reaching 5, and peaks at a notable 11 by 1:00 PM, signaling the highest risk for unprotected skin. Just before the afternoon starts to wane, the index remains at a 10, then gently dips to 9 by 3:00 PM. As the shadows lengthen from 4:00 PM onward, the UV Index decreases to 6, 4, and finally settles back down to 2 by 6:00 PM, wrapping up the day with a soft farewell of 1 by 7:00 PM. It's a vivid reminder of the sun's power, urging us to embrace sun safety during the peak hours!
| 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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels show significant seasonal fluctuations that pose varying risks for skin exposure. High-risk months typically occur from March to September, when the UV Index reaches very high to extreme levels, especially peaking in May and June at an Index of 12. During these months, the recommended burn time reduces drastically to just 10 minutes, necessitating extra caution for visitors and residents alike. To minimize the risk of skin damage, it is crucial to seek shade, wear protective clothing, and apply sunscreen regularly during these periods. Conversely, from November to February, the UV Index drops to moderate, allowing for safer outdoor activities, though caution is still advised, especially on sunny days. Overall, staying informed about UV levels and taking protective measures can ensure a healthier experience under the sun.
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 |
| Matmata | 4 | 5 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Marrakesh UVI | 4 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 5 |