Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Minamishimabara, Japan, is crucial for maintaining optimal skin health and preventing sunburn. As residents and visitors bask in the region's Cfa climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters, the risk of UV exposure can be substantial, particularly during midday hours. With peak UV levels soaring to 11 between noon and 1 PM, awareness of these fluctuations is essential for anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors safely. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can take proactive steps to protect your skin, ensuring that your time in the sun remains enjoyable and risk-free.
The UV Index throughout the day presents a notable peak between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, where it reaches a striking 11, indicating a high risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. The intensity starts at a lower 2 at 7:00 AM, gradually climbing to 3 by 8:00 AM before skyrocketing to 10 by 11:00 AM. As the midday sun intensifies, it maintains a level of 11 at both 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, prompting a reminder to seek shade and wear protective gear. The afternoon sees a decline, dipping to 9 at 2:00 PM and gradually tapering off to 4 by 4:00 PM, then further down to 2 at 5:00 PM. As evening approaches, the levels drop to a gentle 1 by 6:00 PM, highlighting the importance of being sun-aware, especially during those peak hours.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | 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, seasonal changes in UV exposure highlight periods of heightened risk for residents and visitors. From January to February, the UV Index rises from 4 (moderate) to 6 (high), reducing safe exposure time to 25 minutes. Significant increases occur in March, reaching 8 (very high), and peaking during the summer months of April to August at 11-12 (extreme), where only 10 minutes of unprotected exposure is advisable. The risk, while still present, decreases again in September and returns to high levels in October and November with a UV Index of 6-7, allowing for 25 minutes of safe exposure. As such, it is crucial for visitors and residents to remain vigilant, especially during the summer, taking precautions like wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours to mitigate the risk of UV-related health issues.
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 |
| Minamishimabara | 4 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 7 | 6 | 4 |