Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Chefchaouen, Morocco, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. The UV levels can vary significantly throughout the day, peaking around midday when they reach a maximum of 11—a level that can quickly lead to sunburn if proper precautions aren't taken. With Chefchaouen’s Mediterranean climate, characterized by long summers and intense sun exposure, being aware of these UV levels can help you enjoy the beautiful blue streets safely while minimizing risks to your skin. Remember, staying informed about the UV Index not only helps in preventing sunburn but also plays a vital role in maintaining long-term skin health.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins at a mild 1 at 07:00, perfect for those early morning strolls. By 08:00, it climbs to 3, still manageable for outdoor activities. The intensity increases significantly by 10:00, racing to 7, and peaks at a striking 11 by 13:00. This midday surge, reaching 10 at 12:00 and tapering to 9 at 15:00, calls for careful sun protection. As the afternoon wanes, the UV Index descends gracefully to 2 by 18:00, and finally settles back at 1 by 19:00, making for a pleasant evening. Remember, when the sun is highest, it’s vital to stay protected!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 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, 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 |