Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Avarua, Cook Islands is crucial for anyone looking to enjoy the sun while protecting their skin health. With the tropical Af climate, Avarua experiences significant UV exposure throughout the day, particularly during peak hours between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM. Awareness of UV levels is essential not just for sunburn prevention but also for minimizing the risk of long-term skin damage. As you explore the beautiful landscapes of Avarua, staying informed about the UV Index can help you make smart choices to keep your skin safe and healthy.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a dynamic and vibrant midday sun. Starting at 07:00, the UV levels are negligible at 0, slowly rising to 1 by 08:00. As the clock ticks towards 10:00, the intensity escalates to 4, reaching its peak at 12:00 with a robust 7. This high level of UV radiation continues until 14:00, when it slightly declines to 6. As the afternoon progresses, it tapers off, dropping to 4 at 15:00, and further decreasing to 2 by 16:00. The evening ushers in a calming effect, with levels settling back to 1 at 17:00 and 18:00, before retreating to 0 by 19:00. This pattern emphasizes the importance of sun protection during the daylight hours, especially when the index peaks at midday.
| 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | 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 |