Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Flying Fish Cove, situated on the stunning Christmas Island, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. The varying UV levels throughout the day can significantly impact your risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage, making it essential to plan your outdoor activities accordingly. With a tropical climate characterized by intense sunlight, the UV Index can soar to levels of 10 around midday, indicating a high risk for skin exposure. Understanding these fluctuations equips you to enjoy the beautiful environment while safeguarding your skin from harmful effects.
In the early hours of the day, the UV Index starts low, peaking at 1 at 07:00 before gradually rising as the sun climbs higher in the sky. By 10:00, it reaches a noteworthy 8, escalating to its maximum level of 10 at 11:00 and 12:00—the prime hours for sun exposure. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to decline: 9 at 13:00, followed by a drop to 7 at 14:00. The late afternoon sees it further decrease, with values falling to 4 at 15:00 and down to 1 by 17:00. Finally, the UV Index falls to 0 after 18:00, marking the end of a sun-drenched day. Keep in mind, when the UV Index is high, it's crucial to protect your skin!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels exhibit significant fluctuations, with extreme levels dominating from January to April, where the UV Index consistently reaches between 15 to 17 and results in a swift burn time of just 10 minutes. The trend continues, with the peak UV values persisting into July and August, where the risk remains high at 11 to 13. Notably, high-risk months for UV exposure are January through November, all rated as extreme, warning residents and visitors to take necessary precautions. Even June, with a very high UV Index of 10, still necessitates a careful approach, allowing up to 15 minutes of safe sun exposure. For safety, it is imperative to use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade, particularly during the peak UV hours from 10 AM to 4 PM.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flying Fish Cove | 15 | 17 | 16 | 15 | 12 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 16 | 15 |