Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Smimou, Morocco, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. The UV Index, which measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation, can vary significantly throughout the day, making it essential for residents and visitors alike to understand these levels to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. With Smimou's semi-arid climate (BSk), the potential for high UV exposure, particularly around midday when the index peaks at 12, can pose considerable risks. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the sunshine safely and maintain healthy skin year-round.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts low at 1 at 07:00 and remains moderate until 09:00. However, by 10:00, the intensity escalates to a notable 5, marking the beginning of peak UV exposure. The highest readings occur between 12:00 and 14:00, where it reaches a staggering 12—an indication that protective measures are essential to avoid sunburn. As the day transitions towards evening, the index gradually declines, dropping to 8 at 16:00 and falling further to 1 by 19:00. This hourly UVI assessment clearly highlights the importance of sun safety during midday hours!
| 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 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 12 | 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 |
The UV Index experiences significant seasonal changes, peaking from March through August, where it reaches extreme levels. Specifically, May and June record the highest UV Index of 12, indicating a critical risk for skin damage with a burn time of just 10 minutes. July and August also maintain a high UV Index of 11. In contrast, the fall and winter months see a decline, with January and December reflecting a moderate UV Index of 4 and 5, respectively, allowing for longer exposure times of 30 minutes. Given these variations, it is crucial for visitors and residents to take precautions during high-risk months (March to October), including seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen regularly to prevent harmful 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 |
| Smimou | 4 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 5 |
| Marrakesh UVI | 4 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 5 |