Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Kitahiroshima, Japan, as it directly impacts sun safety and skin health. With UV levels peaking at 9 during midday in this climate zone characterized by cold winters and mild summers, being aware of potential sunburn risks can help you protect your skin. Knowing when to seek shade and apply sunscreen is essential for enjoying outdoor activities without compromising your health. As you navigate the beautiful scenery of Kitahiroshima, stay informed and prepared to guard against the high UV exposure that often accompanies sunny days.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index reaches its peak around 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, soaring to a notable 9—a clear signal for sun protection. The morning starts gently, with values of 3 at 7:00 AM rising steadily to 6 by 9:00 AM. By 10:00 AM, the intensity escalates to 8, urging outdoor enthusiasts to take precautions. The afternoon sees a slight decline, dropping to 5 at 3:00 PM, and further to 3 by 4:00 PM, before settling at a low of 1 after 5:00 PM. Keeping an eye on these fluctuations is crucial for safe sun exposure throughout the day!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index shows a clear seasonal variation, with high-risk months from March to September, where values peak at 10 in August. January and December experience low exposure with a UV Index of 2, while February and November have moderate exposure with an index of 3. During April and May, the UV Index rises significantly, reaching very high levels of 8 and 9, meaning a burn time of just 15 minutes is recommended during peak intensity months. Visitors and residents should take precautions from March through September, especially midday, to protect their skin, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade. As UV levels drop in the fall and winter, there is less risk, but some protection is still advisable in February and October.
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 |
| Kitahiroshima | 2 | 3 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 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 |