Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Ofu, American Samoa, where the sun’s rays can be intense even during certain parts of the day. With a tropical climate characterized by consistent warmth and humidity, the UV levels can rise dramatically, peaking at a significant 11 around noon. This highlights the importance of being aware of UV levels for preventing sunburn and maintaining skin health. As exposure increases, so does the risk of skin damage, making it essential to check the UV Index regularly to protect yourself and enjoy the beautiful surroundings safely.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index reaches its peak between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, soaring to a striking 11. The morning starts gently, with the index at a modest 1 by 7:00 AM, slowly climbing to 4 by 9:00 AM. The sun then intensifies, pushing the index to a strong 10 at 11:00 AM, signaling it's time to seek shade and protect your skin. By 2:00 PM, it begins to wane, dropping to 8, and further decreases to 5 by 3:00 PM. As the afternoon progresses, the index continues to fall, reaching 2 at 4:00 PM, and finally settling at 1 by 5:00 PM and 0 as the sun sets at 6:00 PM. Stay aware and shield yourself during those crucial midday hours!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 11 | 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 | 2 | low | 45 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index shows significant variations throughout the year, with extreme exposure levels primarily in the winter and early spring months. From January to May, the UV Index consistently ranges from 11 to 16, indicating high-risk months, particularly during January to April when burn time is just 10 minutes. In June and July, the Index lowers to 9, categorized as very high, allowing for a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. However, levels rise again in August, September, and October, all falling within the extreme category, with burn times reverting to 10 minutes. To ensure safety, residents and visitors alike are advised to limit sun exposure during these high-risk months, seek shade, wear protective clothing, and apply sunscreen consistently when outdoors.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ofu | 16 | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 9 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 |
Aua UVI | 16 | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 9 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 |
Faleniu UVI | 16 | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 9 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 |
Leone UVI | 16 | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 9 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 |
Tafuna UVI | 16 | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 9 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 |
Pago Pago UVI | 16 | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 9 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 |