UV Index in Suva, Fiji

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Suva, Fiji is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful ultraviolet radiation. With peak UV levels often reaching 9 during midday hours, awareness of these levels can significantly aid in sunburn prevention and promote long-term skin health. Suva's tropical climate means that residents and visitors alike face increased exposure to UV rays, making it essential to check the UV Index daily. Whether you're enjoying the sun on a beach or embarking on outdoor adventures, being informed can help you make smarter decisions and protect your skin.

Hourly UV Index in Suva

The UV Index for the day starts off low, with a maximum of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, providing a gentle introduction to sunlight. As the morning progresses, it climbs gradually, peaking at 9 around 12:00, marking the sun's fierce midday intensity. The index remains high at 8 from 11:00 to 13:00, urging outdoor enthusiasts to seek shade and apply sunscreen. However, by the afternoon, the UV Index begins to taper off, declining to 4 at 15:00 and dropping further to 1 by 17:00, before finally hitting 0 in the evening. This fluctuation highlights the importance of being sun-smart, especially during those critical midday hours when UV exposure can be most damaging.

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
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	6	high	25 min
11:00	8	very high	15 min
12:00	9	very high	15 min
13:00	8	very high	15 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	0	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Suva

The UV Index data illustrates significant seasonal changes, with extreme levels persisting from January to April and again re-emerging in August, September, October, and November. The highest risk months for sun exposure are January through April and again in August, where the indices reach as high as 16. During these periods, the burn time is notably short, around 10 minutes, signaling a necessity for stringent sun protection. From May to July, while the UV index dips, it remains at very high levels, with burn times varying between 15 minutes and 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should take proactive measures throughout the year, particularly during peak months, by wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Suva, Fiji

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Suva. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Suva, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Suva UV Index with Other Fiji Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Suva compares to other major locations across Fiji. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Suva's solar exposure compared to other cities in Fiji. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Suva	16	16	15	13	10	8	9	11	13	14	15	15
Ba UVI	16	16	15	13	10	8	9	11	13	14	15	15
Nadi UVI	16	16	15	13	10	8	9	11	13	14	15	15
Lautoka UVI	16	16	15	13	10	8	9	11	13	14	15	15
Labasa UVI	16	16	15	14	11	8	10	12	14	15	15	15