Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of La Goulette, Tunisia, where sunny days invite outdoor activities but also come with increased UV exposure risks. With a Mediterranean climate characterized by warm summers, the UV Index can reach as high as 9 during peak hours, indicating a significant risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Being aware of UV levels not only aids in preventing painful sunburns but also plays a vital role in maintaining long-term skin health. As you enjoy the sun-soaked beaches and vibrant culture of La Goulette, keep an eye on the UV Index to protect your skin and enjoy the great outdoors 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, UV exposure varies significantly, with the highest risk months occurring from April to September. During this period, the UV Index reaches very high levels, peaking in June at an extreme Index of 11, where the burn time is a mere 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious from March to September, when the index consistently exceeds 6, indicating a high to extreme risk of skin damage. To protect against harmful UV rays, it's advisable to wear sunscreen with a high SPF, protective clothing, and seek shade during peak sun hours, especially from late spring through summer. As the UV Index decreases in fall and winter, with moderate levels in January and December, vigilance remains important, albeit with longer safe exposure times of 30 minutes.
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 |
| La Goulette | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 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 |