Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Yamato-Takada, Japan, where the subtropical Cfa climate brings both sunshine and UV exposure risks throughout the year. Being aware of UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburns, but it also plays a vital role in maintaining long-term skin health. With peak UV readings reaching up to 12 midday, the potential for skin damage is significant, particularly during the warmer months. Awareness of the UV Index empowers residents to take proactive measures—such as applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade—ensuring safer outdoor experiences in this beautiful region.
The UV Index data for the day reveals a dynamic progression of sun exposure. Starting at a mild 2 at 07:00, the intensity of ultraviolet radiation ramps up, peaking sharply at 12 during noon. This is the key moment for sun safety, as the index indicates a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the afternoon unfolds, the index gradually decreases, dropping to 6 by 15:00, and then further wanes to 1 by 19:00, signaling a retreat from the sun's intensity. For those enjoying the outdoors, it's crucial to stay vigilant during the high points, particularly between 10:00 and 13:00, when sun protection is most essential.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV exposure varies significantly, with the highest risk occurring during the late spring and summer months. From April to August, the UV Index peaks at 11 to 12, representing an extreme exposure category, with a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. Notably, March and September are also high-risk months, with UV Index levels of 8 and 10, respectively. To protect against harmful UV radiation, it is essential for both visitors and residents to take precautions during these peak months: seek shade, wear protective clothing, and apply broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM. In contrast, during the winter months (January, December), UV levels drop to moderate, offering lower risk for skin damage, with longer burn times of 30 minutes.
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 |
| Yamato-Takada | 4 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 7 | 6 | 4 |