Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Medan, Indonesia, where the tropical climate brings elevated sun exposure risks throughout the year. Being aware of UV levels not only helps prevent painful sunburns but also plays a vital role in maintaining long-term skin health. With peak UV Index values reaching up to 12 around midday, it’s essential to take precautions to protect yourself from harmful rays. In Medan’s tropical wet climate, where sunny days are common, understanding and monitoring UV exposure can help you enjoy the outdoors safely while minimizing risks to your skin.
The UV Index throughout the day exhibits a striking pattern of intensity and decline. Starting the morning at a mere 1 at 7:00 AM, the sun's rays gradually gain strength, reaching a moderate 4 by 9:00 AM. The peak intensity hits an impressive 12 at noon, making 12:00 PM the prime time for sun exposure, which is crucial for vitamin D. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to taper off, with 11 at 1:00 PM and gradually decreasing to 6 by 3:00 PM. The evening brings a soothing end, with a return to 1 by 5:00 PM and finally dropping to 0 by 7:00 PM. This data underscores the importance of sun safety, particularly during the midday hours when the UV exposure is at its highest.
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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index exhibits remarkably high levels throughout the year, with particularly extreme values from January to April, where the index peaks at 15. The high-risk months for UV exposure are consequently January, February, March, and April, all maintaining the same burn time of just 10 minutes. As summer approaches, the index slightly decreases, yet it remains in the extreme exposure category. Notably, visitors and residents should exercise caution during these months by wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade to minimize the risk of harmful UV exposure. Staying vigilant is crucial, as even on less intense days, the potential for skin damage remains significant.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Surabaya UVI | 13 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 |
Bekasi UVI | 14 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 15 | 14 | 13 |
Jakarta UVI | 14 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 15 | 14 | 13 |
Medan | 13 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 12 |
Bandung UVI | 15 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 |