As Morocco endures another round of intense summer heatwaves, health experts are urging people to pay attention not only to soaring temperatures but also to the invisible threat posed by ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
While many Moroccans use sunscreen to avoid sunburn or seek shade to escape the heat, prolonged exposure to UV radiation can silently damage skin cells and remains the leading environmental cause of skin cancer, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
Forecasts indicate that several Moroccan cities will experience very high UV levels this week, with some inland areas expected to reach a UV Index of 10, just below the WHO’s highest “Extreme” risk category.
Unlike air temperature, the UV Index measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation reaching the Earth’s surface. Although UV radiation cannot be seen or felt, excessive exposure can damage the skin, eyes and immune system over time, the WHO says.
The organization classifies UV Index values of 8 to 10 as “Very High,” while values of 11 or higher fall into the “Extreme” category. At those levels, unprotected skin can be damaged within a relatively short period, making protective measures particularly important around midday.
Inland cities face the highest UV exposure
Forecasts from weather service Tutiempo show that Ouarzazate is expected to record an Extreme UV Index of 12, exceeding the WHO’s highest risk threshold.
Casablanca, Rabat-Salé, Fez and Marrakech are forecast to reach a UV Index of 10, placing them in the Very High category. Peak UV radiation is expected between approximately noon and 3 p.m.
The variation is largely driven by geography. Inland cities such as Ouarzazate and Fez typically experience clearer skies and stronger solar radiation, while Atlantic coastal cities benefit from maritime conditions that can slightly reduce UV intensity despite high temperatures.
Compared with many Mediterranean destinations, Morocco experiences similarly high—and at times higher—summer UV levels. While southern Spain, Portugal, southern Italy and Greece often record UV values between 8 and 10 during peak summer, parts of Morocco regularly reach the upper end of that range, with some areas occasionally entering the WHO’s Extreme category.
Awareness remains limited
Despite the country’s abundant sunshine, research suggests public awareness of skin cancer and sun protection remains relatively low.
A 2017 cross-sectional study conducted in Morocco’s Fez region found that 17.9% of participants had never heard of skin cancer, while only 0.85% demonstrated a high level of knowledge about the disease. Researchers also identified widespread misconceptions about skin cancer and preventive measures.
Although nearly three-quarters of respondents recognized sunlight as a risk factor, only 57.9% considered photoprotection—including sunscreen and other protective measures—to be important for preventing skin cancer.
The study concluded that Morocco would benefit from broader public awareness campaigns focused on skin cancer prevention.
Simple steps can reduce the risk
The WHO recommends limiting time in direct sunlight during the middle of the day, particularly when UV levels are high. Other recommended measures include seeking shade whenever possible, wearing clothing that covers exposed skin, using wide-brimmed hats and UV-protective sunglasses, and applying broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, especially during prolonged outdoor activities.
Health authorities also encourage people to make checking the UV Index part of their daily summer routine.
While many people look at the day’s maximum temperature before heading outside, monitoring UV forecasts can help them plan outdoor activities more safely and reduce unnecessary exposure to harmful ultraviolet radiation.
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