Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of both the USA and Japan, where sun exposure can significantly impact skin health. With rising awareness of sunburn risks, knowing the daily UV levels helps to protect against harmful effects, such as skin damage and increased cancer risk. The typical climate in the USA, particularly in regions with a Cfa climate zone, presents unique UV exposure challenges, especially during peak hours when the index can reach an alarming 12 around noon. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the outdoors safely while safeguarding your skin's health.
The UV Index for the day reveals a dynamic shift in sun exposure, peaking dramatically between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM. Starting the morning with a mild maximum of 2 at 7:00 AM, the index steadily rises, reaching 12 by midday—an indication of high risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the afternoon progresses, it dips to 10 at 2:00 PM and then gradually decreases to a more moderate level of 4 by 4:00 PM. By the evening, the UV Index settles back down to 1 by 6:00 PM, signaling a safe time to enjoy the outdoors again. Be sure to protect your skin 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 10 | 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 |
Usa | 4 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 7 | 6 | 4 |