Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Suzu, Japan, where the sunny climate can lead to significant ultraviolet exposure. With UV levels peaking around noon, reaching extremes of 11, being aware of the UV Index can help you protect your skin from harmful sunburns and long-term health issues. In Suzu's humid subtropical climate, the risk of overexposure is especially pronounced during the summer months, making it essential to check UV levels regularly. Whether basking on the beach or enjoying outdoor activities, prioritizing sun safety in this vibrant coastal city is vital for maintaining your skin health.
The UV Index peaks dramatically as the day unfolds, beginning at a mild 2 by 7:00 AM. As the sun climbs higher, the intensity builds steadily, reaching 4 by 8:00 AM and then soaring to 7 at 9:00 AM. The sun’s rays hit their zenith at 12:00 PM, with an intensity of 11, signaling the necessity for sun protection. With a slight dip, the index remains high at 10 by 1:00 PM, before gradually declining to 8 at 2:00 PM. The afternoon sees a gentle descent, with the index falling to 5 by 3:00 PM, then further to 3 at 4:00 PM. As evening approaches, the UV Index drops significantly, settling at a low of 1 by 6:00 PM and staying consistent through 7:00 PM. It’s a strong reminder to safeguard yourself during the midday hours when the sun is most potent!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 4 | 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 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV exposure varies significantly, peaking during the summer months. The highest risk for sunburn occurs from April to August, with the UV Index reaching extreme levels of 11 in both July and August, where the burn time is as short as 10 minutes. March marks the transition to higher UV levels, classified as high, and offers a burn time of 25 minutes. As spring progresses into summer, the risk escalates, with the very high category dominating from April through September, emphasizing the need for sun protection. Visitors and residents should take precautionary measures during these high-risk months, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during peak hours. As the year winds down, November and December return to a moderate UV Index (3-4), allowing for more time outdoors, but vigilance is still recommended.
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 |
| Suzu | 3 | 4 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 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 |