Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Suva, Fiji, where the tropical climate brings high levels of sun exposure. With UV readings peaking at 8 during midday hours, awareness of these levels is essential for preventing sunburn and promoting long-term skin health. The Fijian sun can be intense, and knowing when to seek shade, wear protective clothing, or apply sunscreen can make all the difference in enjoying the vibrant outdoor lifestyle while safeguarding your skin. Stay informed about the UV Index to navigate Suva's sun safely!
The UV Index data paints a vivid picture of sun exposure throughout the day. In the early hours, from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM, the UV Index remains low, peaking at only 1. However, as the sun climbs higher, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, it surges to 8 at noon, marking the peak of solar intensity. The afternoon sees a slight decline, with the index dropping to 5 at 2:00 PM and further to 3 by 3:00 PM. As evening approaches, the UV levels plummet back to a safe 1 by 4:00 PM, and the sun's diminishing rays result in a 0 by 6:00 PM, signaling a welcome reprieve from UV exposure. Essentially, the peak intensity occurs during midday hours, highlighting the importance of seeking shade and wearing protection during these critical hours.
| 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
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.
UV Risk Categories
| 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 |