Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Agadir, Morocco, where sunny days abound. The UV Index provides vital information about the intensity of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, helping to prevent sunburn and protect overall skin health. In this coastal city, characterized by a semi-arid climate, the UV levels can soar, especially during midday hours when values reach as high as 11—indicating extreme risk for sun damage. Being informed about UV exposure risks is essential for enjoying Agadir’s beautiful beaches while safeguarding your skin!
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a striking pattern of increasing intensity, peaking during the early afternoon hours. Starting from a peaceful 1 at 7:00 AM, it gradually escalates, reaching 4 by 9:00 AM. The real surge begins at 10:00 AM, where it hits 6, and continues to climb to a robust 11 by 1:00 PM, maintaining this high level until 2:00 PM. As the sun begins to descend, so does the UV Index, tapering off to 10 at 3:00 PM and gradually falling back to 1 by 7:00 PM. This day presents a clear reminder of the importance of sun protection during peak hours, especially from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, when the UV radiation is at its most intense.
| 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 | 6 | 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 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, seasonal variations in UV levels are significant, with the highest indices occurring from April to August. March and April mark the transition into very high to extreme UV exposure, where burn times diminish sharply, particularly in May and June, with a maximum burn time of just 10 minutes at the peak. July and August remain critical months with extreme UV levels, while September to November see a gradual decrease, returning to a high level by November. Residents and visitors should exercise increased caution from March through August, prioritizing sun protection strategies such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing, particularly during midday hours when UV levels peak. To stay safe, it’s advised to limit direct sun exposure during peak hours and regularly check the UV Index before planning outdoor activities.
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 |
| Agadir | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 5 |
| Marrakesh UVI | 4 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 5 |