Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Mateur, Tunisia, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels can prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of long-term skin issues, making it essential for both locals and visitors to monitor daily conditions. With a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers, Mateur often sees elevated UV exposure, especially during peak hours. Notably, the UV Index reaches a maximum of 9 around noon, indicating a very high risk of harm from sun exposure. By staying informed, you can enjoy the beautiful Tunisian 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index undergoes significant seasonal changes, influencing sun exposure risks for visitors and residents. The high-risk months are primarily from March to September, where the UV Index peaks at 10 in June and July, indicating a very high exposure category and a burn time of just 15 minutes. Notably, April through August are critical periods for sun safety, as protective measures should be prioritized due to heightened UV levels. Conversely, during the cooler months of January, February, November, and December, the UV Index remains relatively lower, categorized as moderate, allowing for longer safe exposure times of 30 minutes. It is advisable for everyone to stay informed about the daily UV index, wear protective clothing, apply sunscreen, and seek shade, especially during the high-risk months, to mitigate harmful effects of UV radiation.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mateur | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 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 |