Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Umm Salmunah, Palestine, where sunny days are abundant, and the risks of overexposure to ultraviolet radiation can have serious health implications. Recognizing the varying UV levels throughout the day—from a moderate index of 3 in the morning to a peak of 12 at noon—is essential for sunburn prevention and maintaining long-term skin health. With the region's Mediterranean climate featuring warm, dry summers, awareness of UV exposure is particularly important to safeguard against the damaging effects of the sun. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the sunshine safely!
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a notable peak of intensity around midday. Starting from a gentle 1 at 07:00, the index rises gradually to reach 3 by 08:00. As the sun climbs higher, things heat up quickly, with values soaring to 5 at 09:00 and then sharply escalating to a maximum of 12 by 12:00. This potent level of UV exposure is sustained until 13:00, when it slightly dips to 11. The afternoon brings a gradual decline, with readings of 10 at 14:00, 7 at 15:00, and slipping further to 5 at 16:00. As the sun begins to set, the UV Index dwindles back down to 2 at 17:00 and settles at a safer 1 by 18:00 and 19:00. It's a clear reminder to protect your skin during those 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, with the highest exposure occurring from March to August. During this peak season, the index reaches extremes, particularly in May and June, where the UV Index remains at 12, indicating an extreme risk level with a burn time of just 10 minutes. February and September also show elevated levels, categorized as high to very high. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during these high-risk months by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure, especially during midday hours when the UV radiation is the strongest. As the year moves into the winter months, the UV Index decreases to moderate levels in January, November, and December, allowing for a more manageable sun exposure.
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 |
| 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 |
| Umm Salmunah | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 5 | 4 |