Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Chefchaouen, Morocco, is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health while enjoying the stunning landscapes of this picturesque town. With the sun's intensity peaking at mid-day, particularly between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM when the UV Index can reach as high as 11, awareness of UV levels can help you prevent sunburn and reduce the long-term risks of skin damage. Chefchaouen's Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm summers and clear skies, can lead to elevated UV exposure, making it essential to stay informed and take protective measures during outdoor activities. Remember, a little knowledge goes a long way in ensuring your time in this beautiful blue city is both enjoyable and safe!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its modest ascent, starting at a gentle 1 around 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it picks up to 3, hinting at a sunnier day ahead. The peak intensity occurs from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, where it skyrockets to a striking 10 at 12:00 PM, reaching an impressive 11 by 1:00 PM—perfect for those sun-seeking adventurers! However, after this zenith, the UV Index gradually declines, dropping to 9 by 3:00 PM and further easing to a 4 by 5:00 PM. By 6:00 PM, it falls to 2, and as the sun sets, it returns to a safe 1 by 7:00 PM. Remember to take precautions during those peak hours to protect your skin from harmful rays!
| 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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index undergoes significant seasonal changes, with high-risk months typically spanning from April to August. During these months, the UV Index climbs to 9 or higher, indicating very high to extreme exposure levels, with notably reduced burn times ranging from just 10 to 15 minutes in May and June. In contrast, the UV Index is moderate in the winter months of January, February, November, and December, allowing for safer, longer exposure times of around 30 minutes. Residents and visitors are advised to exercise caution during high UV periods, especially in spring and summer. It is essential to wear protective clothing, apply sunscreen, and seek shade whenever possible to minimize the risk of skin damage.
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 |
| Chefchaouen | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 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 |