Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Macau is essential for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With summer temperatures soaring and an average UV Index that can reach up to 13 during peak hours, awareness is crucial for effective sunburn prevention and long-term skin protection. Macau’s subtropical climate brings intense sun exposure, especially between 11 AM and 2 PM, making it vital to monitor UV levels and take protective measures. By being informed, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors while minimizing your risk of skin damage.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, peaking at 13 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, making this the most critical time for sun exposure. Starting at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM, it steadily rises to 3 by 8:00 AM and jumps to 5 by 9:00 AM. The intensity further escalates to a striking 11 at 11:00 AM before reaching its zenith. After hitting 13, the index gradually declines throughout the afternoon, dropping to 7 at 3:00 PM and tapering off to a gentle 1 by 6:00 PM. It's essential to stay protected during those peak hours to enjoy the sun safely!
| 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 | 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 | 1 | 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 |