Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Pirae, French Polynesia, where the sun's rays can be particularly intense. With a tropical climate that boasts abundant sunshine, awareness of UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and safeguarding skin health. From the peak UV Index of 8 around midday, it's clear that exposure risks are significant, making it vital to plan outdoor activities accordingly. Stay informed and protect yourself against the sun's harmful effects while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of Pirae.
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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pirae | 16 | 15 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 15 |
| Mahina 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 |