Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Al Mithnab, Saudi Arabia, as it plays a vital role in protecting skin health and preventing sunburn. With intense sun exposure typical in this arid desert climate, the UV levels can reach dangerously high values, peaking at a critical 12 around noon. Being aware of these levels can help you enjoy the outdoors safely while minimizing the risk of harmful effects from UV radiation. Whether planning a daytime adventure or simply soaking up the sun, keeping an eye on the UV Index is essential for maintaining your well-being in this vibrant region.
At dawn, the UV Index starts gently at 2 by 7:00 AM, gradually building momentum as the sun rises. By 8:00 AM, it ticks up to 4, reaching a noteworthy 6 by 9:00 AM. The day's intensity peaks with a striking 12 at noon, emphasizing the importance of sun protection during these peak hours. As the afternoon unfolds, 11 at 1:00 PM and 11 again at 2:00 PM signal sustained exposure risks. The UV intensity begins to decline after 2:00 PM, dipping to 8 at 3:00 PM, then to 6 at 4:00 PM. By evening, the index fizzles out to 1 at 5:00 PM and remains there until 7:00 PM, before finally waning to 0 as the sun sets. Enjoy the sunshine, but remember to stay protected during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 4 | 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 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV levels show significant seasonal variations, peaking during the warmer months from March to September. March marks the beginning of high-risk UV exposure with an extreme index of 11, continuing through to August where it remains at 12. The high-risk months for UV exposure are February to October, with March to July being notably extreme. During these months, the burn time for unprotected skin is as short as 10 minutes, underscoring the importance of sun protection measures. Residents and visitors are advised to wear sunscreen, don protective clothing, and seek shade during peak hours to minimize health risks from UV radiation. As fall approaches, UV levels gradually decrease, but caution is still warranted in October as the index remains very high at 9.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Riyadh UVI | 7 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 6 |
| Al Mithnab | 7 | 8 | 11 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 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 |