Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Al Matlin, Tunisia, where the Mediterranean climate brings plenty of sunshine and heightened exposure risks. With peak UV levels soaring to a significant 9 during midday, awareness of these UV ratings can play a pivotal role in preventing sunburn and maintaining long-term skin health. By tracking the UV Index throughout the day, you can take proactive measures to protect yourself from the harmful effects of overexposure, ensuring that your time under the sun is both enjoyable and safe.
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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index shows significant seasonal changes, reaching its peak during the summer months. From January to February, UV levels are moderate, with a burn time of 30 minutes. As spring approaches, March sees an increase to a high index of 6, decreasing burn time to 25 minutes. April to August are considered high-risk, featuring very high UV levels of 8 to 10 and a burn time of just 15 minutes, making sun protection essential during these months. In September, the UV Index drops slightly to 8, while in October, it remains high at 7 with a burn time of 25 minutes. The UV levels then decline again in late fall and winter, returning to moderate levels of 3 to 4 by November and December. Visitors and residents are advised to take extra precautions during April to August, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours to minimize the risk of UV exposure and skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Al Matlin | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 3 |
| 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 |