Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents of Birqin, Palestine, as it plays a crucial role in protecting skin health and preventing sunburn. With its Mediterranean climate, Birqin experiences significant variations in UV exposure throughout the day, peaking at an alarming UV Index of 12 at noon. This high level emphasizes the importance of being aware of daily UV levels to safeguard against harmful effects of the sun. By monitoring the UV Index, residents can take proactive measures to enjoy the sunshine safely while minimizing the risks associated with increased UV exposure.
The UV Index exhibits a dynamic rise and fall throughout the day, peaking dramatically in the early afternoon. Starting from a modest 1 at 07:00, it escalates to a moderate 3 by 08:00. The real intensity kicks in as it climbs to 5 at 09:00, then surges to 8 at 10:00. By 11:00, it reaches a striking 10, and at 12:00, it boasts an impressive 12, marking the day's zenith. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually decreases, holding steady at 11 at 13:00 and tapering to 10 at 14:00. The evening sees a gentle decline to 8 at 15:00, followed by a drop to 5 at 16:00. As daylight wanes, the UV Index sinks back to 3 at 17:00 and returns to 1 by 18:00, lingering at this low level until 19:00. This fascinating pattern underscores the importance of sun protection, particularly during the peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
As the seasons change, so do UV levels, significantly influencing the risk of sunburn and skin damage. January and December exhibit moderate UV indices of 4, allowing up to 30 minutes of safe exposure. February marks an increase to a high level of 6, reducing safe exposure to 25 minutes. This upward trend peaks in the spring and early summer, with May and June reaching an extreme UV index of 11 and 12, allowing only 10 minutes of exposure. March and April also present very high risks with indices of 8 and 9, advising extreme caution during these months. High-risk months, particularly March to August, require visitors and residents to take preventative measures, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours, especially when the index exceeds 8. As we move into fall, the UV index gradually declines, but remaining vigilant is still wise until November.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jabalya UVI | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 4 |
| Gaza UVI | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 4 |
| Birqin | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 4 |
| Nablus UVI | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 4 |
| Hebron UVI | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 4 |
| Khan Yunis UVI | 4 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 4 |