Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Bir Ali Ben Khalifa, Tunisia, being aware of the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin from harmful sun exposure. Understanding UV levels is crucial not just for preventing painful sunburns, but also for maintaining long-term skin health. With a BSh climate, this coastal city experiences intense sun, especially between 10 AM and 2 PM, when UV rays can reach their peak, soaring to levels 11—considered extremely high. By staying informed about the daily UV Index, residents and visitors alike can take proactive measures to enjoy the sun safely while minimizing their risk of skin damage.
The UV Index throughout the day presents a notable peak between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, where it reaches a striking 11, indicating a high risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. The intensity starts at a lower 2 at 7:00 AM, gradually climbing to 3 by 8:00 AM before skyrocketing to 10 by 11:00 AM. As the midday sun intensifies, it maintains a level of 11 at both 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, prompting a reminder to seek shade and wear protective gear. The afternoon sees a decline, dipping to 9 at 2:00 PM and gradually tapering off to 4 by 4:00 PM, then further down to 2 at 5:00 PM. As evening approaches, the levels drop to a gentle 1 by 6:00 PM, highlighting the importance of being sun-aware, especially during those peak hours.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, with the highest values occurring during the summer months. From January (UV Index 4) to February (UV Index 5), exposure levels remain moderate, allowing for a burn time of 30 minutes. As spring approaches, the UV Index rises sharply, reaching high levels by March (7) and peaking in the summer months of June, July, and August at an extreme index of 11, where burn time plummets to just 10 minutes. The danger then gradually decreases into September and October, where the UV Index remains very high (9 and 8, respectively), followed by a return to moderate levels in the winter months. High-risk months include late spring through summer, particularly from April to August. It is essential for visitors and residents to take proper precautions during this period, including wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours to minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
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 |
| Bir Ali Ben Khalifa | 4 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 3 |