Last updated: August 1, 2025
In Nagaoka, Japan, understanding the UV Index is crucial for maintaining your skin health and preventing sunburn. With the climate classified as Cfa, residents and visitors alike are exposed to varying UV levels throughout the day, peaking at a remarkable 11 around noon. Awareness of these UV levels is essential not just for outdoor enthusiasts but for anyone wishing to protect themselves from harmful rays. Whether you’re enjoying a sunny day in the park or running errands, being informed about the UV Index can help you take necessary precautions and enjoy Nagaoka’s beautiful weather safely.
The UV Index on this sunny day presents a compelling narrative of intensity and caution. Starting the morning gently at 2 by 7:00, the sun gradually escalates its strength, peaking at a robust 11 by 12:00. The midday hours are prime for sun-seekers, but with a UV Index hitting 10 at 11:00, it’s crucial to protect your skin. As the afternoon rolls in, the intensity diminishes, dipping to 5 by 15:00 and falling even lower to 1 by 17:00, making late afternoon and evening more suitable for outdoor activities without as much risk. However, as dusk approaches, the UV Index plunges to 0 by 19:00, marking a safe end to sun exposure. Embrace the sunshine wisely!
| 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 |
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 |
| Nagaoka | 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 |