Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Dakhla, Western Sahara is crucial for safeguarding your skin health in this sun-drenched region. With high UV levels peaking around midday, being aware of these fluctuations helps in preventing sunburn and reducing long-term skin damage. Dakhla’s BWh climate features clear skies and intense sunlight, meaning the risks of UV exposure are significant, particularly between 12 PM and 3 PM when the index can soar to a staggering 11. Stay informed and take necessary precautions to enjoy the sun safely!
The UV Index throughout the day illustrates a dramatic rise in solar intensity as the sun ascends to its peak. Beginning at 07:00 with a UV Index of 0, the morning slowly awakens with values of 1 at 08:00 and 09:00. By 10:00, the index climbs to 3, hinting at the increasing strength of the sun. However, the real heat hits at 11:00, with the index soaring to 6, and by 12:00 it catapults to 8. The peak intensity occurs at 14:00 with an impressive 11, before gradually tapering off as the day progresses, resting at 3 by 18:00 and returning to a gentle 1 by 19:00. This data highlights the crucial window for sun protection, particularly between late morning and early afternoon, when UV exposure is at its highest.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
10:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
16:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
17:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The seasonal UV changes indicate a significant increase in sun exposure from January through May, with the UV Index peaking at 13 in May, marking it as one of the highest risk months alongside March and April, both with an index of 11-12. Visitors and residents are advised to take extra precautions during these high-risk months (March to May), including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during midday when burn times are as short as 10 minutes. As summer progresses into fall, the UV Index slightly decreases, but caution is still warranted through October and November, where burn times remain relatively brief at 15 minutes. In winter months like January and December, the UV Index drops to 7, suggesting a low to moderate risk, although protection is still necessary due to potential reflective UV rays from snow.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Laayoune Plage UVI | 6 | 7 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 6 |
Daoura UVI | 6 | 7 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 6 |
Laayoune UVI | 6 | 7 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 6 |
Dakhla | 7 | 8 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 7 |