Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Bikenibeu Village, Kiribati, where the sun’s intensity can pose significant risks to skin health. With a tropical climate that brings high UV exposure, particularly around midday, being aware of daily UV levels is essential for sunburn prevention and long-term skin wellness. During peak hours, Bikenibeu Village experiences UV Index readings soaring to 14, indicating an extreme risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can take proactive measures to protect yourself and enjoy the island’s beautiful, sunny days safely.
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 | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bikenibeu Village | 15 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 12 |
Bairiki Village UVI | 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 |
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 |