Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Matmata, Tunisia, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With its arid climate typical of the BWh zone, Matmata experiences high UV exposure, particularly during peak hours. On sunny days, the UV Index can reach 10 around noon, indicating a significant risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By being aware of UV levels, you can take proactive measures to prevent sunburn and maintain skin health, ensuring that your time in the sun is both enjoyable and safe. Stay informed and safeguard your skin while exploring the unique beauty of this enchanting region!
The UV Index rises sharply as the day unfolds, kicking off at a gentle 1 at 07:00. However, by 08:00, it climbs to 3, signaling increasing sun intensity. The real surge comes between 09:00 and 12:00, where it escalates to a peak of 10, urging sun safety precautions, especially during the sun's zenith from 11:00 to 13:00. As the afternoon progresses, the intensity wanes, dropping to 8 at 14:00 and gradually declining to 6 by 15:00. A further descent continues into the evening, with values plummeting to 1 by 19:00. This trend serves as a reminder to stay protected during the sun's most potent hours!
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 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 | 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, UV Index levels fluctuate significantly, with the highest levels occurring during the summer months. From June to August, the UV Index reaches a maximum of 11, categorized as extreme, with a burn time of only 10 minutes. This indicates the need for increased vigilance during these months, as prolonged exposure can lead to severe sunburn and skin damage. The high-risk months are therefore considered to be March through September, particularly stark in April, May, July, and August, which consistently show very high to extreme exposure levels. Residents and visitors are advised to take precautions, including wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and seeking shade, especially during peak sun hours from 10 AM to 4 PM. Conversely, during the winter months of January, November, and December, when the UV Index drops to moderate, the burn time increases to 30 minutes, allowing for more extended periods outdoors with reduced risk. Proper sun safety measures should be adjusted based on these seasonal UV changes to ensure well-being year-round.
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 |
| Matmata | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 4 |