Last updated: May 3, 2025
Staying aware of the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Beja, Tunisia, where the Mediterranean climate can lead to high sun exposure. Understanding UV levels is essential to prevent sunburn and safeguard skin health, especially during peak hours when the UV Index can reach as high as 9 around midday. With Beja's warm and sunny weather, it's important to recognize the risk of UV radiation, particularly between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM when protective measures should be prioritized. Stay informed and enjoy the sun safely!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, peaking at 12:00 PM with a striking 9. Early hours start mild, with a 1 at 07:00, gradually climbing to a 3 by 08:00. The sun's rays intensify, reaching a moderate 5 by 09:00, and quickly soaring to a robust 7 at 10:00. By 11:00, it hits an 8, signaling the need for sun protection. The highest UV exposure occurs between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, holding steady at 9—a time to seek shade or don sunscreen. The intensity then begins to wane, dipping to 7 at 2:00 PM, before gradually descending to a 1 by 7:00 PM. Keep in mind the midday sun to stay safe and enjoy your outdoor activities!
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal fluctuations, peaking during the summer months of June and July with an extreme exposure category of 11, where the burn time is as little as 10 minutes. The high-risk months for UV exposure extend from March to August, particularly in April and May when the index reaches 8 to 9, classified as very high with burn times dropping to 15 minutes. Residents and visitors should take precautions during this peak period, such as wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen frequently, and seeking shade, particularly during midday hours when the sun is most intense. From September to February, UV exposure is comparatively lower, but it remains important to stay vigilant and informed, especially in the transition months of March and October where the index can still reach high levels.
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 |
| Beja | 3 | 5 | 6 | 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 |