Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Karaikal, India, where the climate's tropical characteristics can intensify sun exposure. As UV levels can soar to a maximum of 12, it's essential to be aware of the risks associated with sun exposure, such as sunburn and long-term skin damage. High UV index values, particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM, pose significant risks, making awareness and protection vital for maintaining skin health. With Karaikal's sunny climate, being informed about UV levels can help you enjoy the outdoors while safeguarding your skin against harmful effects.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a striking pattern of solar intensity. Early risers at 07:00 experience a mild level of 2, but as the sun climbs higher, the intensity surges. By 10:00, it reaches a peak of 10, and the midday hours from 11:00 to 12:00 are even more intense, with a UV Index of 12—the point at which protective measures become essential. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to decline, dropping to 7 at 14:00 before easing to 4 by 15:00. The evening brings relief, with the index plummeting to 1 by 17:00 and eventually fading to 0 after 18:00. To make the most of the sun, enjoy the morning hours, but be cautious during peak times and keep that sunscreen handy!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 7 | high | 25 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | 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 |
The UV Index experiences significant seasonal changes, peaking from March to October, when it consistently reaches extreme levels. The highest UV Index of 15 occurs in April, while February and March also present critical risks with values of 12 and 13 respectively. Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious during these high-risk months, where the recommended burn time is as low as 10 minutes. To protect against harmful UV exposure, it is advisable to wear sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, especially during midday hours when the sun's rays are strongest. In contrast, January, November, and December see a slight decrease in UV levels, with indices categorized as very high, and a burn time of 15 minutes still necessitating protective measures. Overall, maintaining awareness of UV fluctuations is crucial for enjoying outdoor activities safely throughout the year.
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 |
| Hyderabad UVI | 10 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 8 |
| Karaikal | 10 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 10 | 9 |
| Bengaluru UVI | 11 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 11 | 10 |