Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Suq al Khamis, Yemen, where the sun shines brightly in a BWk climate characterized by dry and hot conditions. Being aware of UV levels helps protect against sunburn and promotes overall skin health, especially during high exposure times. With readings peaking at 12 around noon, the risks of skin damage soar, making it essential to monitor UV levels daily. By understanding and responding to these changes, you can enjoy the outdoors safely while minimizing the harmful effects of UV radiation.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins at a mild 1 at 07:00, gradually climbing to a respectable 3 by 08:00. The real intensity kicks in around 09:00, reaching 6, and peaks at an impressive 12 by 12:00 noon, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. The warmth continues into the early afternoon, with levels at 11 at 11:00 and tapering to 10 at 13:00. From there, the UV rays start to wane, dropping to 8 at 14:00, then way down to 5 at 15:00. As the day winds down, the index settles back to 3 at 16:00, dropping to 1 by 17:00, and finally fading to 0 after 19:00. It’s crucial to stay protected during those peak hours when the UV rays are at their strongest!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index experiences significant seasonal fluctuations, peaking in the spring and early summer months. From February through June, the Index consistently reaches extreme levels of 11 to 13, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. March, April, and May show the most significant risk, with a burn time of just 10 minutes for fair-skinned individuals. As July to September approaches, while the UV Index slightly declines, it remains at an extreme level of 11, still warranting caution. By October, the Index drops to 10, transitioning to a very high category, while November and December continue at a very high level of 9 and 8, respectively, allows for some relief but still requires awareness. Visitors and residents should take precautions during these high-risk months, including using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, particularly between 10 AM and 4 PM, when UV radiation is strongest.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Al Hudaydah UVI | 9 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 |
| Aden UVI | 10 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 9 |
| Suq al Khamis | 10 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 |
| Taiz UVI | 10 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 |
| Mukalla UVI | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 |
| Sanaa UVI | 12 | 13 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 10 |