Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for everyone in Essaouira, Morocco, especially with the region's BSh climate, known for its warm, sunny days. With UV levels soaring to a maximum of 11 during peak hours, awareness of these values is crucial for sunburn prevention and maintaining skin health. As you enjoy the picturesque beaches and vibrant culture of Essaouira, being mindful of UV exposure helps protect you from harmful effects, ensuring your outdoor experiences are both enjoyable and safe. Stay informed and shield your skin, as the Moroccan sun can be fierce!
The hourly UV Index paints a vivid picture of the sun's intensity throughout the day. Starting off gently in the early morning, with maximum readings of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, it gradually begins to climb. By 09:00, it reaches 3, signaling a noticeable increase in UV exposure. The sun peaks dramatically at 12:00, soaring to a 10, reaching its zenith with a maximum of 11 at both 13:00 and 14:00—a prime time for sun protection. As the afternoon slips into evening, the UV Index begins to recede, dropping to 8 by 16:00, and then tapering off to 5 at 17:00. The day winds down with a safe 3 at 18:00 and returns to a manageable 1 by 19:00, reminding us to stay vigilant and enjoy the sun responsibly throughout the day.
| 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 | 10 | very high | 15 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 |
Throughout the year, UV Index values exhibit significant seasonal changes, highlighting varying levels of sun exposure risk. From January to February, the UV Index rises from 4 (moderate) to 6 (high), reducing safe exposure time from 30 minutes to 25 minutes. The UV risk escalates in March and April with indices at 8 and 10 (both very high), demanding increased vigilance as burn times drop to 15 minutes. The peak of the UV Index occurs from May through August, reaching 11 (extreme), where only 10 minutes of sun exposure is deemed safe. As summer transitions to fall, UV levels gradually decline, with September and October maintaining very high levels at 10 and 8, respectively. Residents and visitors should be especially cautious during the high-risk months of May through August, adopting protective measures such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize health risks associated with excessive UV 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 UVI | 4 | 5 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Essaouira | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 5 |
| Marrakesh UVI | 4 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 5 |