Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Kawasaki, Japan, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful ultraviolet rays. With the city’s humid subtropical climate (Cfa), residents and visitors are often exposed to varying UV levels, particularly during peak hours when the index can soar to 11. Awareness of UV levels not only helps in preventing painful sunburns but also plays a significant role in long-term skin health. By staying informed about the daily UV index, you can enjoy the vibrant outdoor culture of Kawasaki while taking the necessary precautions to protect yourself from sun damage.
The UV Index today showcases a dynamic rise and fall throughout the hours, peaking at 11 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM. Starting from a gentle 2 at 7:00 AM, it climbs steadily, reaching 10 by 11:00 AM. As the sun approaches its zenith, the index hits its maximum of 11, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. After this peak, the index begins its descent, tapering down to 6 at 3:00 PM before declining further to 2 by 5:00 PM. As evening sets in, it settles at a mild 1 from 6:00 PM onward, reminding us to take precautions when basking in the midday sun but allowing for safer outdoor activities as daylight fades.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, seasonal changes in UV exposure highlight periods of heightened risk for residents and visitors. From January to February, the UV Index rises from 4 (moderate) to 6 (high), reducing safe exposure time to 25 minutes. Significant increases occur in March, reaching 8 (very high), and peaking during the summer months of April to August at 11-12 (extreme), where only 10 minutes of unprotected exposure is advisable. The risk, while still present, decreases again in September and returns to high levels in October and November with a UV Index of 6-7, allowing for 25 minutes of safe exposure. As such, it is crucial for visitors and residents to remain vigilant, especially during the summer, taking precautions like wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours to mitigate the risk of UV-related health issues.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sapporo UVI | 2 | 3 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 10 | 8 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Yokohama UVI | 3 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Tokyo UVI | 3 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Nagoya UVI | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
| Osaka UVI | 4 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
| Kawasaki | 4 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 7 | 6 | 4 |