Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Zag, Morocco, especially given its BWh climate, which generally features hot, dry summers with high sun exposure. Being aware of UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburn but is also essential for maintaining long-term skin health. During the peak hours, particularly between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, UV Index values can soar to dangerous heights, reaching levels as high as 13—a clear signal to take protective measures against harmful radiation. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the sun safely while safeguarding your skin against potential damage.
As the sun rises higher in the sky, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a calm 1 at 7:00 AM and remaining gentle until 9:00 AM. However, things take a turn for the intense as the clock ticks toward noon. By 12:00 PM, the UV Index peaks at a blazing 11, signaling a strong need for sun protection. It reaches its maximum intensity, 13, at 2:00 PM, before gradually tapering off to 5 by 5:00 PM. As the day winds down, the UV Index drops back to 1 by 7:00 PM, reminding us that while the sun is a source of life and energy, it also requires our vigilance to enjoy safely.
| 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 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 16:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
As the seasons change, so do the UV levels, significantly affecting the risk of sunburn. January starts with a moderate UV Index of 5, allowing for a burn time of 30 minutes. By February, the index rises to 7 (high), reducing safe exposure time to 25 minutes. The spring months of March and April continue this trend, both reaching a very high level of 10, necessitating a burn time of just 15 minutes. Entering May through September, the UV Index peaks at an extreme level of 12-13, where a mere 10 minutes can lead to sunburn, especially in the middle of summer. October sees a decline to 9 (very high), while November and December return to high levels, with indices of 7 and 6, respectively, allowing for 25 minutes before burning occurs. Visitors and residents should prioritize sun safety, particularly during high-risk months from March through September, by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours.
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 |
| Zag | 5 | 7 | 10 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 6 |