Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Catarman, Philippines, where the tropical climate provides ample sunshine but also significant exposure to harmful ultraviolet rays. Awareness of UV levels is essential for sunburn prevention and maintaining long-term skin health, particularly as the UV Index can spike dramatically during peak hours. In Catarman, you can expect a range of UV levels, with a maximum index of 13 at noon, highlighting the importance of taking protective measures. As the sun reaches its zenith, it's vital to equip yourself with knowledge to enjoy the outdoors safely while safeguarding your skin against the risks of excessive sun exposure.
The UV Index reveals a compelling narrative of sun intensity throughout the day. Early risers can expect a mild start at 7:00 AM with a UV Index of 2, gradually escalating to a moderate level of 4 by 8:00 AM. The sun's powerful grip tightens swiftly, hitting 7 by 9:00 AM and reaching its peak at a striking 13 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. This zenith suggests it’s the ideal time to seek shade or don protective gear. As the afternoon progresses, the index gently retreats, dropping to 9 at 2:00 PM before falling to 5 by 3:00 PM. By 4:00 PM, it’s back to 2, trailing down to 0 by 6:00 PM, marking the day's end of significant sun exposure. Stay vigilant during those peak hours for safe outdoor enjoyment!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 10:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 11:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 15 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | 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 |
The UV Index shows significant seasonal variation, with extreme levels persisting throughout the year, peaking in March (UV Index 16) and remaining high until May. The months of January through June and August to October feature an extreme exposure category, maintaining a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious during the high-risk months of March and April, as the UV exposure is notably intense. It is advisable for everyone to take strong sun protection measures year-round, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours when the sun’s rays are strongest.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caloocan City UVI | 11 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 10 |
| Quezon City UVI | 11 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 10 |
| Manila UVI | 11 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 10 |
| Catarman | 13 | 14 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 11 |
| Budta UVI | 13 | 15 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 11 |
| Davao UVI | 13 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 15 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 11 |