Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Raba, Palestine, where the Mediterranean climate brings abundant sunshine but also significant UV exposure risks. With peak UV levels soaring to 11 around midday, it's vital to be aware of these fluctuations to prevent sunburn and protect skin health. High UV Index readings can damage the skin even on seemingly mild days, making awareness and proactive measures essential for everyone. As you navigate daily life in Raba, keep an eye on the UV Index—it’s your best friend for enjoying the sun safely!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting modestly at 1 by 7:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, the intensity ramps up to 5, signaling a gentle warning for sun-sensitive activities. The peak arrives between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, where the UV Index reaches a robust 11, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. After this zenith, the numbers gradually decline, dropping to 7 by 3:00 PM, and later sinking back to a lowly 1 by 6:00 PM. This hourly dance of UV radiation reminds us to stay vigilant during the brightest hours of the day, ensuring we protect our skin while enjoying the sunshine.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, with the highest levels recorded from March to August. The most critical months for UV exposure are May and June, where the Index reaches an extreme level of 11 to 12, resulting in a burn time of only 10 minutes. As such, visitors and residents should exercise caution during these months, utilizing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during midday hours. In comparison, the months from January to April and November to December present lower risk with moderate exposure categories. It is essential to remain vigilant year-round, particularly during the high-risk months, to minimize the risk of skin damage.
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 |
| Nablus UVI | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 4 |
| Raba | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 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 |