Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Okawa, Japan, a region characterized by its warm Cfa climate that often exposes individuals to higher levels of ultraviolet radiation. Awareness of UV levels is essential for sunburn prevention and maintaining healthy skin, especially during peak hours when the UV Index can soar to 11 around midday. With typical summertime exposure risks, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen can help safeguard your skin and promote overall well-being in this vibrant locale. Stay informed and enjoy the sun responsibly!
At sunrise, the UV Index starts gently at 1 at 07:00, making it a safe time for morning activities. However, as the sun climbs higher, the intensity surges, reaching 3 by 08:00 and escalating to a peak of 11 between 12:00 and 13:00. This is the crucial window when protection from the sun is essential, as exposure can lead to skin damage. As afternoon progresses, the index gradually declines, settling back to 9 by 14:00. By the time evening approaches, the UV Index dips to 2 at 17:00 and returns to a minimal 1 by 18:00, signaling a return to safer levels. Whether you’re planning outdoor fun or just soaking up the sun, be mindful of these fluctuations for optimal UV safety!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 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 |
| Okawa | 4 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 7 | 6 | 4 |