Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Sakakah, Saudi Arabia, where the BWh climate exposes individuals to intense sunlight throughout the year. Being aware of UV levels helps prevent sunburn and safeguard skin health, reducing the risk of long-term damage. With peak UV Index values soaring to 12 around midday, it's vital to take preventive measures during those hours to protect against the harsh effects of sun exposure. As Sakakah experiences high temperatures and minimal cloud cover, knowing the UV Index can make a significant difference in your outdoor experiences.
The UV Index for the day reveals a dynamic shift in sun exposure, peaking dramatically between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM. Starting the morning with a mild maximum of 2 at 7:00 AM, the index steadily rises, reaching 12 by midday—an indication of high risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the afternoon progresses, it dips to 10 at 2:00 PM and then gradually decreases to a more moderate level of 4 by 4:00 PM. By the evening, the UV Index settles back down to 1 by 6:00 PM, signaling a safe time to enjoy the outdoors again. Be sure to protect your skin during those peak hours!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
16:00 | 4 | 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 exposure varies significantly, peaking during the summer months. January and February see a high UV Index of 6 and 7, with a burn time of 25 minutes. As spring arrives in March and April, the index rises to 10, categorized as very high, with a reduced burn time of 15 minutes. May to August marks the extreme UV Index period, reaching a maximum of 12 and a burn time of just 10 minutes. July is particularly critical, given its high index level. In September and October, UV levels decrease slightly to 10 and 8, respectively, but remain in the very high category. By November, the index drops back to 6 and further to 5 in December, indicating moderate exposure. Visitors and residents should take precautions, especially from March through October, by wearing adequate sun protection and limiting time in direct sunlight to prevent skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sakakah | 6 | 7 | 10 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 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 |