Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Ishikawa, Japan, as it helps gauge the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and informs necessary precautions to protect skin health. With peak UV levels soaring to 13 between noon and 1 PM, staying aware of these fluctuating levels is essential to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. In Ishikawa's humid subtropical climate, individuals must remain vigilant, especially during the summer months when UV exposure risks are heightened. By monitoring the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors while keeping your skin safe and healthy.
The UV Index exposure throughout the day exhibits a striking progression, peaking at 13 around noon. Starting from a gentle 1 at 7 AM, the index gradually escalates, hitting 3 by 8 AM. As the morning unfolds, it climbs to 5 by 9 AM, reaching a significant 9 by 10 AM. The afternoon sun intensifies, culminating in a maximum value of 11 at 11 AM before surging to its zenith at 12 PM. Following the high point, the index gradually declines, dropping to 12 at 1 PM, and tapering off to 10, 7, and finally 4 by mid to late afternoon. As the sun sets, the UV Index diminishes further, resting at 1 by 6 PM and continuing through 7 PM. It’s advisable to take precautions during peak hours, especially between 11 AM and 1 PM, to ensure safety under the sun.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 13 | 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, the UV Index exhibits significant fluctuations, with the highest levels occurring during the late spring and summer months. From February to September, the index reaches extreme highs, particularly in March to August, where the UV Index consistently sits at 13 with a minimal burn time of 10 minutes. The high-risk months are clearly identified as March through September, when individuals should take extra precautions. In contrast, January and December see lower UV levels, categorized as high with a burn time of 25 minutes, while October and November experience very high levels (UV Index 9) but allow slightly longer exposure (15 minutes). To ensure safety, residents and visitors are strongly advised to wear protective clothing, apply sunscreen frequently, and seek shade during peak sun hours in the 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 |
| 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 |
| Ishikawa | 7 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 9 | 6 |