Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in El Ksour, Tunisia, where sun exposure can pose significant health risks. With peak UV levels soaring to 10 around midday, awareness of these readings is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. El Ksour's Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers, amplifies these UV risks, making it vital to check daily UV levels and take protective measures. By staying informed, you can enjoy the sun safely while safeguarding your skin against harmful effects.
As the sun rises, the UV Index gradually transitions from a mild 1 at 07:00 to an invigorating 3 by 08:00. The peak UV intensity hits its stride between 12:00 and 13:00, reaching a striking 10, a clear call for sun protection. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to decline, tapering off to 8 at 14:00, 6 at 15:00, and eventually settling to a gentle 2 by 17:00. By evening, the UV levels dip back down, returning to a safe 1, indicating it's time to relax and enjoy the cooler, softer light of sunset.
| 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | 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 |
Seasonal changes in UV exposure reveal significant variations throughout the year. From March to August, the UV Index peaks, with April to June marking the highest levels of risk. Specifically, May and June experience an extreme UV Index of 10 and 12, where the potential burn time is just 10 minutes. Consequently, March and October present high risks with UV Index values of 7, and residents and visitors should take precautions during these months as well. To protect yourself, it’s advisable to wear sunscreen, protective clothing, and seek shade, particularly during peak hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. From December to February, UV exposure decreases significantly, but individuals should remain vigilant, as moderate levels can still cause skin damage with unprotected exposure.
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 |
| El Ksour | 4 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 |