Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Kasserine, Tunisia, where the sun shines brightly due to its semi-arid climate (BSk). The UV levels here can soar, especially during the midday hours, reaching a peak of 12 at noon—an indicator of very high risk for unprotected skin. Awareness of this index not only aids in preventing sunburn but also plays a significant role in maintaining long-term skin health. As Kasserine sees significant UV exposure from early morning through the afternoon, being informed about current UV levels can help you take the necessary precautions to enjoy the sun safely.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a modest 2 at 07:00. By 08:00, it reaches 3, signaling the start of a day filled with increasing sun intensity. The index climbs to 6 by 09:00, peaking dramatically at 12 during noon. Between 11:00 and 13:00, the UV Index hovers around a remarkable 11, emphasizing the need for protection against the sun’s rays. As the afternoon rolls on, values gradually decline, settling at 9 by 14:00 and then tapering off to 7 at 15:00. By late afternoon, the index drops to 4 at 16:00 and continues its descent to 1 by the evening, reminding us of the dynamic nature of sunlight throughout the day. Stay informed and protected during the 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | 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, impacting both residents and visitors. High-risk months occur from March to August, with the UV Index peaking at a dangerous level of 12 in June, where the burn time is as brief as 10 minutes. The very high exposure categories in March (8), April (9), and September (9) also warrant caution, with burn times of just 15 minutes during these months. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to take protective measures such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, especially during the summer months when UV exposure is at its highest. In contrast, the beginning and end of the year show lower UV levels, with January and December having a moderate exposure category (UV Index 4 and 3, respectively) and longer burn times of 30 minutes. Being aware of these seasonal changes can help everyone enjoy the sun safely.
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 |
| 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 |
| Kasserine | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 3 |