Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Ahau, Fiji, where the sun's rays can pose significant health risks. With exposure levels peaking at 12 around midday, being aware of these UV levels can help you effectively prevent sunburn and protect your skin health. Ahau's tropical Am climate means that high UV exposure is common, especially during the late morning and early afternoon hours. Staying informed about the UV Index not only empowers you to enjoy the beautiful sunny days safely but also helps in maintaining long-term skin health.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a dynamic range of solar intensity, peaking at 12 around noon. Starting the day gently, the index registers a low 1 at 7:00 AM, gradually rising to 2 by 8:00 AM. As the sun climbs higher, it reaches 5 by 9:00 AM, then surges to a robust 11 by 11:00 AM, signaling higher caution for outdoor activities. The peak at midday is a daunting 12, urging everyone to seek shade and wear protective gear. The intensity begins to taper off in the afternoon, dropping back to 8 at 2:00 PM and further to 5 by 3:00 PM. By the late afternoon, the index drops significantly to 1 at 5:00 PM and settles at 0 by 6:00 PM, giving a gentle reminder that the sun's might can vary dramatically throughout the day.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | 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 |
Throughout the year, the region experiences extreme UV Index levels, particularly from January to April, which consistently register a UV Index of 16 and a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. As spring transitions into summer, the UV Index slightly decreases, though high-risk months remain prevalent with May's Index at 12 and declining only to 9 in June. The summer months of July and August maintain extreme levels, with caution advised for both periods. Notably, as autumn arrives, September sees a spike to 14, followed by October and November at 15, all underlining the consistent need for protection against UV radiation. Visitors and residents are strongly encouraged to take proactive measures, including wearing protective clothing, applying high-SPF sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to mitigate risks of skin damage and ensure safe outdoor experiences year-round.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Suva UVI | 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 |
| Ahau | 16 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 12 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 |