Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Rikubetsu, Japan, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin's health throughout the year. The increasing awareness of UV levels helps residents and visitors alike prevent sunburn and mitigate long-term damage caused by harmful ultraviolet rays. Nestled in a Dfb climate zone, Rikubetsu experiences a unique blend of seasonal variations that can lead to surprising UV exposure risks, particularly during the peak hours of 10 AM to 2 PM when the index reaches its highest point of 9. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can better protect yourself and enjoy the beautiful outdoor landscapes this charming town has to offer.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, peaking at 9 between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Early risers will find a more manageable 3 at 7:00 AM, but as the day progresses, the intensity escalates, reaching a robust 8 by 10:00 AM and hitting its zenith with a 9 at noon. A gradual decline follows, with values decreasing to 7 at 1:00 PM, and dipping further to 4 by 3:00 PM. As evening approaches, the UV levels drop sharply, falling to 1 by 5:00 PM and fading to 0 by 7:00 PM. It's a day that reminds us to be vigilant under the sun's powerful rays, especially during the midday hours!
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 7 | high | 25 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index demonstrates notable seasonal changes, with high-risk months occurring from March to September. During this period, the UV Index peaks at 10 in July, categorizing it as exceptionally high, with a burn time of just 15 minutes. The months of April, May, June, August, and September also maintain a very high exposure category with similar burn times. In contrast, January and December are the least risky months with a low exposure category and a longer burn time of 45 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to adopt protective measures, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, especially from March to September when the sun’s intensity is at its peak. Remember to check the UV Index daily to ensure your safety while enjoying outdoor activities.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rikubetsu | 2 | 3 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| 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 |