Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the residents and visitors of Samatau, Samoa, where the sun shines brightly throughout the year. With high levels of UV radiation, particularly around midday, awareness of UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and maintaining long-term skin health. In this tropical climate, the risk of UV exposure rises significantly, peaking at an index of 9 between noon and 1 PM. Staying informed about the UV Index can help you enjoy the sun safely while protecting your skin from its harmful effects.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index steadily climbs, presenting a dynamic shift from the early morning hours. Starting at a modest 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, the index makes a notable leap to 3 by 09:00. The sun reaches its zenith around 12:00, peaking at an intense 9, where sun protection becomes essential. The afternoon hours show a slight retreat, descending to 5 by 15:00, before tapering off in the late evening. As daylight wanes, the UV Index drops back to 1 by 17:00, eventually reaching 0 just after sunset. This hourly data underscores the importance of being sun-smart during the peak midday hours for optimal skin protection.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | 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 |
The UV Index varies significantly throughout the year, peaking during the first half with extreme levels from January to April and maintaining high levels in August and September. Notably, the high-risk months include January through April and August through October, where UV exposure categories consistently indicate extreme risk. Residents and visitors should exercise caution during these months, limiting sun exposure to less than 10 minutes, especially during the peak hours of sunlight. It is advisable to wear protective clothing, apply broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seek shade to minimize the risk of harmful UV damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Samatau | 16 | 16 | 16 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 9 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 |
| Siusega UVI | 16 | 16 | 16 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 9 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 |
| Faleula UVI | 16 | 16 | 16 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 9 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 |
| Apia UVI | 16 | 16 | 16 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 9 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 |
| Mulifanua UVI | 16 | 16 | 16 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 |
| Asau UVI | 16 | 16 | 16 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 |