Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the residents of Chirala, India, where the sun's rays can be intense, particularly during peak hours. Awareness of UV levels is vital for preventing sunburn, maintaining skin health, and reducing the long-term risks of skin cancer. In this coastal town, characterized by an Aw climate, the UV Index often peaks at dangerous levels, especially around noon, highlighting the need for proactive sun protection. Whether you're enjoying a day at the beach or running errands, knowing the UV forecast can help you make informed choices to safeguard your skin against harmful ultraviolet radiation.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins at a modest 2 at 7:00 AM, gradually escalating to a peak of 12 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM—the prime time to protect your skin. By 9:00 AM, it hits 8, making the morning sun increasingly potent. The intensity starts to wane after noon, dropping to 10 by 1:00 PM and then tapering off to 5 by 3:00 PM. As the day progresses, the UV Index diminishes, reaching 1 by 5:00 PM and finally settling at 0 by 7:00 PM. It’s a compelling reminder that while the midday sun can be treacherous, the late afternoon offers a safe retreat from harmful rays.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 10:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 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 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, with the most dangerous periods occurring from February to October. During this timeframe, the UV Index consistently reaches extreme levels, peaking at 14 in September, indicating a very short burn time of just 10 minutes. The highest-risk months—March through September—are particularly critical for outdoor activities, and individuals should exercise caution and take protective measures such as using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade whenever possible. In contrast, the transition months of November and December, while still categorized as very high by the UV Index, allow for slightly longer exposure times of 15 minutes without burning. Visitors and residents alike are advised to remain vigilant about UV exposure and to adjust their sun safety practices accordingly throughout the seasons.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi UVI | 5 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 5 |
| Mumbai UVI | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 7 |
| Ahmedabad UVI | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 6 |
| Chirala | 8 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 11 | 9 | 8 |
| Hyderabad UVI | 10 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 8 |
| Bengaluru UVI | 11 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 11 | 10 |