Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors in Shibetsu, Japan, as it plays a critical role in protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet radiation. With UV levels peaking at 8 around midday, awareness of these values can help you make informed decisions about sun protection, reducing the risk of sunburn and long-term skin health complications. Shibetsu, characterized by its Dfb climate, experiences variable UV exposure, making it vital to stay vigilant, especially during peak daylight hours when sun safety measures are most needed. Be proactive and equip yourself with the knowledge to enjoy the outdoors safely!
The UV Index throughout the day presents a compelling narrative of sun exposure. Starting at 7:00 AM, it gently climbs, peaking at 8 between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM, indicating the highest potential for harmful UV radiation. As the sun reaches its zenith, the index remains steady at 8, a critical reminder to protect your skin during these hours. In the early afternoon, it begins to taper off, dropping to 7 at 1:00 PM and continuing downward, finally reaching 0 by 7:00 PM. The gradual decline underscores the importance of vigilance in sun safety, especially during the mid-morning to early afternoon hours when the UV intensity is at its greatest. Remember to wear sunscreen and seek shade during the peak hours!
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 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, significantly affecting outdoor activities and skin health. From the low exposure of January with a UV Index of 2 to the very high levels reaching 9 in the summer months of June, July, and August, it’s crucial for residents and visitors to be mindful of UV radiation. The high-risk months are May through August, where the UV Index consistently remains very high, resulting in a rapid burn time of just 15 minutes. During this period, it is advised to take extra precautions such as wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade to minimize exposure. As summer transitions to fall, the UV levels decrease, but September still carries a high risk with an index of 7. By November and December, the risk drops back to moderate and low, respectively, allowing more leisurely outdoor activities. Stay informed and protect your skin to enjoy the great outdoors safely!
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shibetsu | 2 | 3 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 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 |