Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Qandala, Somalia, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. The UV levels can soar during peak hours, with a maximum index of 11 around midday, posing significant risks for sunburn and long-term skin damage. With Qandala's hot desert climate (BWh), awareness of UV exposure is particularly important to ensure safe outdoor activities. Recognizing these levels helps locals and visitors alike take necessary precautions, safeguarding against harmful effects while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
The UV Index of the day begins modestly, peaking at 2 by 07:00. As the sun rises higher, the intensity escalates quickly, reaching 4 at 08:00 and skyrocketing to a striking 9 by 10:00. The 11:00 and 12:00 hours see the highest values, each hitting 11, signaling a crucial time for sun protection. A gradual decline starts at 13:00 with a drop to 10, followed by 7 at 14:00. By 15:00, the UV Index decreases to 4 and continues to fall, hitting 2 by 16:00, and finally sinking to 1 by 17:00 before dipping to 0 from 18:00 onwards. This data illustrates the importance of vigilance during the midday hours when UV exposure is at its peak.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
09:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
15:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the Ultraviolet (UV) Index consistently remains high, particularly from January to October, with extreme levels mostly sustained between 11 and 14. The high-risk months for UV exposure are notably from February to April, peaking in March and April at a severe level of 14, where unprotected skin can burn in as little as 10 minutes. Even during the summer, from June to August, the UV Index remains dangerously elevated. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to take precautionary measures year-round, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during peak hours, to minimize the risk of skin damage. In December, the UV Index decreases to 9 but still poses a very high risk, with a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. Being vigilant about UV exposure is crucial for health and safety.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Qandala | 11 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 9 |
Berbera UVI | 12 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 10 |
Marka UVI | 13 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 |
Mogadishu UVI | 13 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 |
Kismayo UVI | 13 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 12 |
Hargeysa UVI | 13 | 15 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 12 | 15 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 11 |