Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Bekalta, Tunisia, where the Mediterranean climate brings long, sunny days and a heightened risk of UV exposure. Being aware of UV levels is essential for sunburn prevention and maintaining overall skin health, especially during peak afternoon hours when the UV Index can soar to 11—an extreme level that poses significant risks for unprotected skin. As you explore Bekalta's stunning beaches and vibrant atmosphere, keep in mind the importance of sunscreen and protective clothing, particularly between 10 AM and 4 PM, when the sun’s rays are at their strongest. Stay informed, stay safe, and enjoy all that Bekalta has to offer!
The UV Index today follows a dynamic trajectory, peaking dramatically as the sun climbs. Starting at a modest 1 at 07:00, it rises to 3 by 08:00 and then continues its ascent, reaching 5 by 09:00. The intensity escalates further, peaking at an impressive 11 at 12:00—a time when sun protection is crucial. As the afternoon wears on, the index moderately descends, dropping to 10 by 13:00 and gradually decreasing to 6 at 15:00. By 16:00, it falls to 4, before tapering off to 1 by 18:00 and remaining constant until 19:00. This hourly breakdown highlights the importance of being sun-smart during peak hours, especially when the index is at its highest!
| 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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | 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, the UV Index experiences notable fluctuations, indicating varying levels of risk for sun exposure. The high-risk months are primarily from March to August, when the UV Index reaches its peak, particularly in June and July, with an extreme rating of 11 and a burn time of just 10 minutes. Residents and visitors should exercise caution during these months by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen regularly. In contrast, the months of January, November, and December present a moderate exposure category with lower UV Index ratings of 3-4, allowing for safer outdoor activities with standard precautions. It is crucial for everyone to stay informed about the UV levels and adjust their sun protection strategies accordingly throughout the seasons.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bizerte UVI | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 3 |
| Tunis UVI | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 3 |
| Bekalta | 3 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 3 |
| Sousse UVI | 3 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 3 |
| Sfax UVI | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
| Kairouan UVI | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 |