Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Ash Shajarah, Syrian Arab Republic, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin. The UV Index, which measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation, plays a pivotal role in preventing sunburn and maintaining overall skin health. Given Ash Shajarah's Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers, residents and visitors should be especially vigilant during peak exposure times, especially when UV levels can soar as high as 11 around midday. By staying informed about local UV levels, you can enjoy the sun responsibly while protecting your skin from potential damage.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting modestly at 1 by 7:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, the intensity ramps up to 5, signaling a gentle warning for sun-sensitive activities. The peak arrives between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, where the UV Index reaches a robust 11, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. After this zenith, the numbers gradually decline, dropping to 7 by 3:00 PM, and later sinking back to a lowly 1 by 6:00 PM. This hourly dance of UV radiation reminds us to stay vigilant during the brightest hours of the day, ensuring we protect our skin while enjoying the sunshine.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 7 | high | 25 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, with the highest levels recorded from March to August. The most critical months for UV exposure are May and June, where the Index reaches an extreme level of 11 to 12, resulting in a burn time of only 10 minutes. As such, visitors and residents should exercise caution during these months, utilizing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during midday hours. In comparison, the months from January to April and November to December present lower risk with moderate exposure categories. It is essential to remain vigilant year-round, particularly during the high-risk months, to minimize the risk of skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Latakia UVI | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 3 |
| Aleppo UVI | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |
| Hamah UVI | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
| Homs UVI | 4 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 3 |
| Ash Shajarah | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 4 |
| Damascus UVI | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 5 | 4 |