Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Sidi Qacem, Morocco, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining your skin health and preventing sunburn. Understanding the UV levels throughout the day helps you make informed decisions about sun exposure, especially during the summer months when the UV Index can peak at an intense 11 around noon. With a Mediterranean climate (Csa) that showcases sunny days and elevated UV radiation risks, it’s essential to stay informed and protected while enjoying the outdoors. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can safeguard your skin and enjoy the beautiful, sunlit days that Sidi Qacem has to offer.
As the sun climbs higher in the sky, the UV Index steadily intensifies, peaking at an impressive 11 between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM. Starting from a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, the index gradually escalates, hitting 10 by noon. The most intense exposure occurs during the late morning and early afternoon, with 8 at 11:00 AM and 7 at 10:00 AM. After this peak, the index begins to wane, dropping to 6 by 4:00 PM and further declining to 1 as evening approaches. It's crucial to stay protected during these peak hours, especially from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, when the sun's rays are at their fiercest.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | 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 exposure varies significantly, with high-risk months occurring from March to August. During this period, the UV Index ranges from 7 to 11, indicating high to extreme levels of solar radiation. Notably, both June and July peak at an extreme level of 11, with a reduced burn time of just 10 minutes. It's crucial for visitors and residents alike to protect themselves during these months by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen regularly. Conversely, from October to February, UV levels drop to moderate, allowing for more extended exposure times, although it's still advisable to maintain some sun protection habits during these cooler months.
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 |
| Sidi Qacem | 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 |