Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the residents of Bairiki Village, Kiribati, a place where the sun shines brightly under the tropical climate. With peak UV levels soaring to highs of 14 during midday, awareness of UV exposure is vital for sunburn prevention and overall skin health. Knowing the UV index allows villagers to plan their outdoor activities safely, minimizing risks associated with excessive sun exposure, such as skin damage and long-term health issues. Stay informed and protect yourself from the intense solar rays that characterize life in this vibrant community!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a mild 1 at 07:00. The intensity ramps up quickly, hitting 2 by 08:00 and surging to a moderate 5 by 09:00. However, as midday approaches, watch out! The index skyrockets to a peak of 14 between 12:00 and 13:00, signaling a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. After this zenith, the UV Index gradually descends, dropping to 11 at 14:00, and then easing to 4 by 16:00. Finally, the index dwindles to 1 by 17:00 and fades to 0 by 19:00, marking a day where sun safety is crucial during those brightest hours.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index exhibits extreme exposure levels throughout the year, with the highest values recorded from January to April, consistently reaching 16. This period, along with February and March, represents the highest risk months for sunburn, where even a brief exposure of just 10 minutes can lead to skin damage. May sees a slight decrease to 14, while June and July maintain a high index of 12 and August rises again to 13. Thereafter, UV levels remain relatively steady, declining slightly to 14 in September and October and finishing the year at 12 in December. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to take protective measures, such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses, especially during these high-risk months to minimize exposure to harmful UV radiation.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bairiki Village | 15 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 12 |
Teaoraereke Village UVI | 15 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 12 |
Bikenibeu Village UVI | 15 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 12 |
Betio Village UVI | 15 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 12 |
Tarawa UVI | 15 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 12 |