Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the residents and visitors of Agano, Japan, especially given its Cfa climate which contributes to significant UV exposure during the year. Awareness of UV levels is key for preventing sunburn and maintaining overall skin health. With peak UV Index values reaching 11 around midday—indicating very high risk—it's essential to take protective measures during these hours. Agano's beautiful environment invites outdoor activities, but being informed about UV conditions can ensure you enjoy the sun safely while minimizing potential skin damage.
The UV Index (UVI) exhibits a notable pattern throughout the day. Starting at 2 at 7:00 AM, it gradually rises, peaking at 11 by noon and 1:00 PM. This high level of UV exposure indicates that sun protection is essential during these hours. As the afternoon progresses, the UVI begins to dip, dropping to 7 by 2:00 PM and then declining further to 5 by 3:00 PM. By late afternoon, the sunlight's intensity reduces significantly, with the UVI falling to 1 by 5:00 PM and remaining minimal through 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM. This data underscores the importance of taking precautions during peak hours while enjoying the outdoors.
| 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 | 11 | extreme | 10 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 | 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, which measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation. January and December start the year with a moderate UV Index of 3, allowing for a safer 30-minute exposure without significant risk. Moving into February, the index rises to 5, maintaining a moderate level, but caution is advised. By March, the UV Index escalates to 7 (high), warning of a 25-minute burn time. The most critical months for UV exposure are April through August, where the UV Index peaks at 11 (extreme), significantly lowering burn times to just 10 minutes in June, July, and August. September sees a drop to 9 (very high) with a 15-minute burn time, while October and November return to moderate levels, with indices of 6 and 5 respectively, allowing for longer exposure again. Therefore, visitors and residents should take precautions, particularly from April through August, using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize UV exposure during these high-risk months.
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 |
| Agano | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 6 | 5 | 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 |