Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Avarua, Cook Islands, where the sun’s rays can be both beautiful and harmful. With a tropical climate that typically features high UV exposure, being aware of UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and maintaining healthy skin. During the day, particularly from 10 AM to 2 PM, UV levels peak at a dangerous 7, underscoring the importance of protection during these hours. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the stunning beaches and lush landscapes of Avarua while safeguarding your skin from potential damage.
As the sun rises and the day unfolds, the UV Index experiences a steady climb. Starting the day at a cool 0 at 07:00, the index rises to a modest 1 by 08:00. By 09:00, it ticks up to 2, signaling that protection is becoming more necessary. The intensity peaks sharply at 12:00 and 13:00, where it reaches its maximum level of 7, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the afternoon sun begins to wane, the index gracefully declines, dropping to 5 at 14:00 and 4 by 15:00. The evening brings relief, with levels sinking to 2 by 16:00, further down to 1 at 17:00, and finally returning to 0 as night falls at 19:00. Protecting oneself from the sun becomes crucial during those midday hours to enjoy the beauty of the day safely!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 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 exhibits significant seasonal variation, peaking in the earlier months of the year from January to April, when it remains in the extreme category with values ranging from 16 to 11 and a burn time of only 10 minutes. As the year progresses, the risk decreases, with May experiencing a very high UV Index of 8 and a longer burn time of 15 minutes, while June and July maintain a high index of 7, allowing for a burn time of 25 minutes. However, the risk escalates again in August and early autumn, particularly in September, October, and November, when the index returns to the extreme category, highlighting burn times of just 10 minutes. Residents and visitors should remain vigilant and take protective measures, especially during the high-risk months from January to April and again in September to November, ensuring adequate sunscreen application, protective clothing, and limited sun exposure during peak hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avarua | 16 | 15 | 14 | 11 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 10 | 11 | 14 | 14 | 15 |