Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Laayoune Plage in Western Sahara, where the sun’s intensity can reach extreme levels. Awareness of UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and protecting skin health, ensuring that outdoor activities remain enjoyable and safe. Laayoune Plage, characterized by its hot desert climate (BWh), typically sees UV Index values peak around midday, with readings climbing to as high as 11. This underscores the importance of monitoring UV exposure to avoid harmful effects from the sun, allowing you to fully embrace the beauty of this coastal paradise.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off at a comfortable 0 at 07:00, but by 08:00, it climbs to 1, indicating a low level of sun exposure risk. The intensity continues to build, reaching 2 by 09:00 and then surging to 4 at 10:00. At 11:00, the index escalates to 6, prompting caution, and by noon, it peaks at a staggering 9. The hottest hour is at 13:00 with an index of 10, closely followed by 14:00, which hits 11. As the afternoon progresses, the UV levels begin to drop—instead of rising, the index falls to 10 at 15:00 and continues to decrease, settling at 8 by 16:00. By 17:00, it dips to 5, and as the sun sets, the index safe-harbors at 3 at 18:00, finally winding down to 1 by 19:00. Remember to protect your skin during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences notable fluctuations, with the highest risk months occurring from March to September. During this period, UV levels reach extremes, with April and May peaking at a UV Index of 12, indicating a particularly hazardous risk for skin damage. For visitors and residents, it is crucial to be aware of these seasonal changes and take protective measures. Between March and September, limit sun exposure, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM, when the sun is strongest. Utilize sunscreen with a high SPF, wear protective clothing, and seek shade when necessary. As we move into October to December, the UV Index lowers but still remains a concern; thus, it is advisable to maintain sun safety practices year-round.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Laayoune Plage | 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 UVI | 7 | 8 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 7 |