Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Al Marsa, Tunisia, where sun exposure can be both refreshing and harmful. With a climate characterized by warm summers and abundant sunshine, being aware of UV levels helps prevent sunburn and supports long-term skin health. Typically, UV levels peak around midday, reaching a maximum of 10—indicating a high risk for harm if proper precautions aren't taken. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful Tunisian sun while protecting your skin from its potentially damaging effects.
As the day begins, the UV Index starts gently at 2 at 7:00 AM, increasing steadily through the morning. By 10:00 AM, it peaks at a robust 8, marking the arrival of prime sun exposure. The intensity reaches its zenith from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, where it holds steady at a high 10, urging outdoor enthusiasts to take precautions against harmful rays. After this midday height, the UV Index begins its descent, tapering to 8 by 2:00 PM, then gradually dwindling to 4 by 4:00 PM. As the evening approaches, values drop further to 2 and finally to 1 by 6:00 PM, signaling a safe retreat from the sun's influence. Staying aware of these fluctuations can help protect against overexposure while enjoying the outdoors!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | 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 |
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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Al Marsa | 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 |