Last updated: June 2, 2025
Awareness of the UV Index is crucial for residents of Yatma, Palestine, where the Mediterranean climate (Csa) brings both sunny days and significant UV exposure. Understanding UV levels is vital for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health, especially during peak hours when the index can reach a staggering 12 around noon. With the sun rising to a maximum of 10 by late morning, the risk of skin damage escalates quickly. By keeping track of the UV Index, you can take proactive measures to ensure your outdoor activities are safe and enjoyable, while minimizing the long-term effects of UV radiation.
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 |
Throughout the year, UV index levels exhibit significant seasonal changes, with high-risk months primarily occurring from February to October. February begins with a high UV index of 6, escalating to very high levels in March and April, reaching an extreme peak of 11 to 12 during the summer months of May through August. The highest UV index recorded is 12 in June, where the recommended burn time is as brief as 10 minutes. After August, the index declines but remains very high in September and October, with burn times of 15 minutes. As such, visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautionary measures during these peak months by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and limiting sun exposure, particularly during midday hours, to avoid harmful UV radiation.
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 |
| Yatma | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 4 |
| Khan Yunis UVI | 4 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 4 |