Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Tapas, Philippines, where the tropical climate can expose individuals to significant sun radiation throughout the year. Awareness of UV levels is essential not only for preventing sunburn but also for maintaining long-term skin health and reducing the risk of skin-related issues. With the UV Index here peaking dramatically at 13 around noon, it's important to take precautions and stay informed about when to seek shade or apply sunscreen. So, whether you're basking in the sun or enjoying outdoor activities in this vibrant locale, being mindful of the UV Index can help you enjoy the beautiful weather while keeping your skin safe.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts at a mild 2 at 7:00 AM, making it a gentle beginning to the day. By 8:00 AM, it climbs to 4, hinting at the need for a bit of sun protection. The intensity reaches its peak between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM, soaring to a high of 13. This powerful midday sun calls for extra caution as the UV index hovers at this level for two consecutive hours before gradually tapering off. By 3:00 PM, the UV Index drops to 5 and continues to decline, hitting 1 by 5:00 PM. As evening approaches, the UV levels ease to 0 by 7:00 PM, wrapping up the day with a low-risk, sun-safe atmosphere. Enjoy the bright moments, but don’t forget your sunscreen during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 11:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels vary, but they consistently remain in the extreme exposure category, with burn times of just 10 minutes across all months. The highest UV Index values are observed from March to April, peaking at 17 in April, making these the most critical months for UV exposure. Although other months exhibit slightly lower indices, such as May to August with values ranging from 14 to 15, the risk of skin damage remains significant. Residents and visitors are urged to take precautions, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during these high-risk months. Always be mindful of UV exposure, as even on cloudy days, harmful rays can penetrate the atmosphere.
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 |
| Budta UVI | 13 | 15 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 11 |
| Tapas | 12 | 14 | 16 | 17 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 13 | 12 | 11 |
| Davao UVI | 13 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 15 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 11 |