Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Qurayyat, Saudi Arabia, where the desert climate results in intense sunlight and varying UV exposure throughout the day. With peak UV levels reaching as high as 11 around noon, awareness of these levels is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. As a town located in a BWh climate zone, Qurayyat residents face heightened risks of UV radiation, especially during the summer months. Staying informed about the UV Index helps individuals take proactive measures to enjoy the outdoors safely while shielding themselves from harmful effects.
The UV Index today charts an intriguing journey as the sun makes its ascent. Starting at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM, the UV levels steadily rise, reaching a moderate 3 by 8:00 AM. As the day progresses, the intensity peaks dramatically, hitting 10 at 11:00 AM and soaring to a maximum of 11 at noon and 1:00 PM—a clear signal for sun safety. After this zenith, the index gracefully declines, dipping to 7 by 3:00 PM, before slipping to 2 at 5:00 PM and settling back to a low 1 by evening. It's a vivid reminder of the sun’s power and the importance of taking precautions 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 | 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 | 2 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels exhibit significant seasonal changes. High-risk months for UV exposure are from March to August, where indexes peak at 12-13 in May and June, categorizing them as extreme with a burn time as short as 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should take caution during these months, practicing sun safety by wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak hours. As the year progresses, falling UV indices in September and October signal a decrease in risk, but the levels remain at very high. January and December see a return to a moderate exposure category, making sun protection less critical but still advisable. Overall, staying informed and vigilant is key to safeguarding against harmful UV radiation year-round.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Qurayyat | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 5 |
Riyadh UVI | 7 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 6 |
Mecca UVI | 8 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 7 |
Jeddah UVI | 8 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 6 |
Sultanah UVI | 7 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 8 | 6 |
Medina UVI | 7 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 8 | 6 |