Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors in Al Hoceima, Morocco, where the coastal climate can lead to varying levels of sun exposure throughout the day. With UV levels peaking around midday at a striking 11, awareness of these levels is crucial for sunburn prevention and maintaining skin health. As the sun shines brightly in this charming region, it’s important to recognize the risks associated with high UV exposure, especially during warm months. By staying informed and taking precautions, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoor climate while protecting your skin from harmful effects.
The UV Index today showcases a dramatic rise in sun intensity as the morning gives way to the blazing afternoon. Starting at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM, it gradually escalates to a moderate 3 by 9:00 AM. By 10:00 AM, the index spikes to 5, signaling a need for caution. As the clock approaches noon, the index reaches a peak of 10, representing a high risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. The zenith of 11 at 1:00 PM demands serious precautions. However, by 4:00 PM, it begins to decline, settling at 6 by the late afternoon and tapering off to 1 by dusk. It's essential to stay protected during those peak hours to enjoy the sun safely!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | 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 | 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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Al Hoceima | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| 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 |