Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Macau, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin against harmful sun exposure. Understanding UV levels not only enhances your sunburn prevention strategies but also plays a vital role in maintaining long-term skin health. With a humid subtropical climate (Cwa) that experiences intense sunlight, particularly during the summer months, Macau residents and visitors must be vigilant about UV risks. For instance, the UV Index can peak at 14 around midday, underscoring the importance of taking precautionary measures to safeguard your skin while enjoying the vibrant outdoor experiences Macau has to offer.
The UV Index throughout the day displays a dynamic rise and fall, peaking at 14 around 12:00 PM, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Starting with a gentle 1 at 07:00, it escalates quickly, climbing to a 9 by 10:00 AM. The index reaches its zenith at noon before gradually tapering down to 2 by 17:00, and finally settling at 0 by 19:00. This pattern highlights the importance of sun protection during the midday hours when UV radiation is at its most intense, urging everyone to be vigilant and stay safe!
| 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 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 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 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant fluctuations, highlighting varying levels of sun exposure risk. High-risk months, particularly from February to September, consistently show extreme levels, peaking in May with a UV Index of 14 and a minimal burn time of just 10 minutes. In these months, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to take precautionary measures; this includes using broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during midday hours. Conversely, the UV Index decreases during October to January, with high levels in January and December (UV Index 7) and very high in November (UV Index 9). While risk is lower during these months, UV protection remains advisable, especially during outdoor activities. Staying informed about UV changes can help ensure safe enjoyment of the sun year-round.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Macau | 7 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 7 |