Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Otawara, Japan is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. High UV levels can lead to sunburn and increase the risk of skin cancer, making it essential to stay informed about daily UV exposure. In Otawara, situated in a Cfa climate zone, residents and visitors face varying UV risks, particularly during peak hours when the index can soar to 10 around midday. Being aware of these fluctuations helps you take the necessary precautions, ensuring your time outdoors remains safe and enjoyable.
In the morning, the UV Index starts off relatively low, peaking at 3 by 7 AM. As the day progresses, it steadily climbs, reaching a notable high of 10 at both 11 AM and 12 PM—this is the time to be cautious! The index then begins to dip and falls back to a moderate level of 4 by 3 PM, before dwindling to 1 by 5 PM, and finally settling at 0 by 7 PM. For those enjoying outdoor activities, it’s essential to stay sun-smart during the mid-day hours when UV radiation is at its peak!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 08:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The seasonal UV variations indicate a significant increase in UV exposure from winter to summer, with high-risk months emerging from April through August. During this period, the UV Index peaks at 11 (extreme), particularly in June, July, and August, where the burn time drops to just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautionary measures during these months, such as seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen frequently. As the UV levels decrease in the fall and winter months, with indices dropping to 3 in January and December, the risk of sunburn diminishes. However, maintaining sun safety practices year-round remains essential for health and well-being.
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 |
| Otawara | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 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 |