Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Vacoas, Mauritius is crucial for everyone who enjoys the island's beautiful outdoors. As you soak in the tropical sun, being aware of UV levels can significantly aid in preventing sunburn and promoting long-term skin health. With Vacoas experiencing a warm, subtropical climate, UV exposure can reach concerning heights, particularly between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, when the UV Index soars to 9. Safeguarding your skin from harmful UV rays is essential for making the most of your time in this vibrant locale, ensuring you enjoy sunny days without the risk of damage.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins to climb steadily, hitting a low of 1 at 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it nudges up to 2, signaling the start of a brighter day. The index peaks at 9 at 12:00 PM, marking the sun’s most intense rays and urging everyone outside to take precautions. As the afternoon unfolds, the index gradually declines—dropping to 8 by 1:00 PM, then easing to 3 by 3:00 PM, before plummeting to 0 after 6:00 PM. This data highlights the crucial midday hours when UV exposure is at its highest, emphasizing the need for sun protection during this window. Be sun-smart and enjoy your day!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the region experiences significant fluctuations in UV index levels, peaking during the winter and early spring months. The highest risk months for UV exposure are January through April, where the UV Index consistently measures 16 (extreme) with a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. Even as we transition into summer, May marks a reduction to a UV Index of 9 (very high), extending burn time to 15 minutes, while June offers a slight reprieve at 7 (high) for 25 minutes. However, July and August resurge to very high levels of UV exposure, warranting caution. As the year closes, October to December exhibits another surge in risk, returning to extreme levels with an index of 13 to 15 and a burn time of 10 minutes. For residents and visitors alike, it is crucial to practice sun safety year-round, particularly during these higher-risk months, by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and minimizing direct sun exposure during peak hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vacoas | 16 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 |
| Quatre Bornes UVI | 16 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 |
| Curepipe UVI | 16 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 |
| Beau Bassin-Rose Hill UVI | 16 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 |
| Port Louis UVI | 16 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 |