Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Kagoshima, Japan, being aware of the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels can help you prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of long-term skin damage, especially as the island experiences a humid subtropical climate that typically sees higher UV exposure during summer months. With peak UV Index values reaching as high as 12 around noon, it's crucial to monitor these levels and take appropriate precautions, whether you're enjoying outdoor activities or simply soaking in the beautiful scenery. Stay informed and safeguard your skin while you bask in Kagoshima's stunning natural beauty!
At dawn, the UV Index begins its ascent at a modest 1 by 7:00 AM, reflecting minimal sun risk. As the morning unfolds, it climbs to 3 by 8:00 AM and reaches 6 by 9:00 AM, signaling an increase in sun exposure. The sun peaks at 12 around noon, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. The intensity remains high at 11 until 1:00 PM, before gradually declining as the afternoon progresses. By 3:00 PM, the index dips to 6, and later, it falls to 2 by 5:00 PM, showcasing a gentle evening retreat from the sun. Finally, the UV Index settles back to 1 by 6:00 PM, signaling a safe end to the day's exposure. Remember to protect your skin during those peak hours from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | 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 Index levels show significant seasonal variations that pose varying risks of sunburn. January and December experience moderate exposure, with burn times of 30 minutes, while February sees a rise to high exposure (25 minutes). The spring months see a rapid escalation, peaking in March with a very high UV Index of 10 and a burn time of just 15 minutes. From April to August, the index remains at an extreme level, hitting its highest at 13 in August, where protection is vital as burn time drops to 10 minutes. As autumn arrives, September remains at extreme levels, but by October and November, the index decreases to very high and high, respectively. Residents and visitors are advised to take precautions, particularly during the high-risk months from March to September, by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to reduce exposure during peak hours.
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 |
| 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 |
| Kagoshima | 5 | 6 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 4 |