Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Ofu, American Samoa, where the tropical climate presents unique sun exposure challenges. With UV levels peaking at an alarming 9 during midday hours, awareness of these fluctuations is essential for sunburn prevention and maintaining long-term skin health. As one of the sunniest spots in the Pacific, Ofu's Af climate means that knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen can make a significant difference in protecting your skin from harmful UV rays. Stay informed and safeguard your sun-soaked adventures!
The hourly UV Index displays an intriguing pattern throughout the day. **Starting from a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, the intensity begins to rise steadily. By 10:00 AM, it escalates to a more significant 5, reaching its peak of 9 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM—a time when sun protection is crucial. As the afternoon progresses, the index dips, dropping to 4 at 3:00 PM and further decreasing to 1 by 5:00 PM. Finally, it settles at 0 after 6:00 PM, indicating a comfortable evening for outdoor activities. Stay vigilant! Understanding these UV levels can help you enjoy the sun safely.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
15:00 | 4 | 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 |