Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the residents and visitors of Mahina, French Polynesia, a tropical paradise known for its vibrant sunshine and lush landscapes. With UV levels peaking at 8 around noon, awareness of these values is vital for preventing sunburn and protecting your skin health. Given Mahina's Af climate, characterized by warm temperatures and significant sun exposure, recognizing the risks associated with varying UV levels can help you enjoy the outdoors safely. Stay informed and safeguard your skin while soaking up the beauty of this stunning location!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its gradual ascent, peaking sharply at 12:00 PM with a striking 8—a reminder of the midday sun's intensity. Starting the day at a gentle 1 at 07:00, it climbs steadily to reach 6 by 10:00 AM, encouraging outdoor enthusiasts to stay protected. The climax arrives at 11:00 AM with a 7, followed closely by the height of 8 at noon. As the afternoon progresses, the UV level gracefully declines, dipping to 5 by 2:00 PM, then significantly dropping to 3, 1, and finally 0 after 6:00 PM. This data underscores the importance of sun safety during peak hours, particularly between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, when the UV risk is at its highest—so ensure you’re well-shielded during these critical times!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 6 | high | 25 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 |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels show significant seasonal variations, with the highest risk occurring from January to April where the index reaches extreme levels, peaking at 16 in January. This period requires heightened caution for both visitors and residents, as the burn time is only 10 minutes. As the months transition into May and June, the index drops but remains classified as very high, with a burn time extending to 15 minutes. September sees a return to extreme conditions, resembling those at the year's beginning. The high-risk months are thus January through April and September through October, with November and December also warranting caution due to extreme UV levels. Visitors and residents are advised to take preventative measures during these months, such as wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours to minimize the risk of skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mahina | 16 | 15 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 15 |
| Pirae UVI | 16 | 15 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 15 |
| Punaauia UVI | 16 | 15 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 15 |
| Papeete UVI | 16 | 15 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 15 |
| Faaa UVI | 16 | 15 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 15 |