Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Avarua, Cook Islands is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. Awareness of UV levels helps you prevent sunburn and promote long-term skin health, especially in a tropical climate where the sun’s intensity can be particularly high. During the daytime, Avarua typically experiences significant UV exposure, peaking at 8 between midday hours, which can increase the risk of skin damage if precautions aren't taken. Whether you're enjoying a beach day or exploring the stunning landscapes, staying informed about the UV Index empowers you to enjoy the sun safely and responsibly.
The UV Index throughout the day paints a dynamic picture of sun exposure. Starting with a gentle rise, the index is low at 1 during the early hours, slowly creeping up to 2 by 09:00. The real intensity kicks in around 10:00, soaring to 5, and reaching a peak of 8 at noon and 13:00. As the afternoon wears on, the index gradually declines, slipping to 7 by 14:00 and further dropping to 4 by 15:00. As the sun retreats, so does the UV intensity, falling back to 1 by 17:00 and finally to 0 by 19:00. Overall, from midday to early afternoon, it's essential to take precautions against the sun's rays, but later hours offer a welcome reprieve.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | 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 | 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 |