Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Fukushima, Japan is crucial for residents and visitors alike, as it plays a significant role in skin health and sunburn prevention. With the average climate classified as Dfb, Fukushima experiences distinct seasonal variations that can lead to elevated UV exposure, especially during peak hours. Notably, the UV Index in the region peaks at a notable 10 around midday, signaling a heightened risk of harm from sun exposure. Being informed about these UV levels helps you make educated decisions on protection, ensuring you enjoy the beautiful outdoors without compromising your skin's well-being.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a mild 3 at 07:00. By 08:00, it reaches a moderate 5, urging early risers to consider sun protection. The index surges to an impressive 9 by 10:00, peaking at an intense 10 from 11:00 to 12:00, marking the day’s most hazardous time for skin exposure. As the sun slowly descends, the UV intensity begins to decline, dropping to 6 at 14:00 and further easing to 4 by 15:00. After this point, the UV Index dwindles to 2 by 16:00, and finally descends to 1 by 17:00, where it languishes until the day fades at 19:00 with a safe 0. Stay sun savvy; peak hours demand caution!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 08:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | 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 |
As the seasons change, so does the UV Index, which measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation. January and December start the year with a moderate UV Index of 3, allowing for a safer 30-minute exposure without significant risk. Moving into February, the index rises to 5, maintaining a moderate level, but caution is advised. By March, the UV Index escalates to 7 (high), warning of a 25-minute burn time. The most critical months for UV exposure are April through August, where the UV Index peaks at 11 (extreme), significantly lowering burn times to just 10 minutes in June, July, and August. September sees a drop to 9 (very high) with a 15-minute burn time, while October and November return to moderate levels, with indices of 6 and 5 respectively, allowing for longer exposure again. Therefore, visitors and residents should take precautions, particularly from April through August, using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize UV exposure during these high-risk months.
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 |
| Fukushima | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 6 | 5 | 3 |
| 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 |