Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors alike in Satapuala, Samoa. With its tropical climate, the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation can pose significant risks, especially during peak hours when UV levels soar to a maximum of 11 around noon. This awareness is vital not only for preventing painful sunburns but also for maintaining long-term skin health. By recognizing the daily UV levels—ranging from 1 in the early morning to a high of 11 during midday—individuals can better protect themselves while enjoying the beautiful Samoan sunshine. Embrace the sun wisely to ensure your outdoor experiences remain both enjoyable and safe!
The UV Index throughout the day offers a clear picture of sun intensity and potential risk for skin exposure. Starting off at a mild level of 1 at 07:00, the index gradually climbs, reaching 2 by 08:00. By 09:00, it jumps to 4, signifying a need for sun protection as it approaches midday. The peak arrives at 11:00 with a striking 10, followed closely by 11 at both 12:00 and 13:00, indicating the highest risk for harmful UV rays. As the afternoon progresses, the UV Index dips, falling to 9 at 14:00 and eventually to a more manageable 5 by 15:00. The evening brings relief, as it decreases further to 3 at 16:00, and to 1 by 17:00. Finally, as the sun sets, the index drops to 0 by 19:00, marking the end of a day defined by varying levels of UV exposure. It's a vivid reminder of the sun's intensity and the importance of appropriate sun safety measures during peak hours!
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | 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 |
The UV Index displays significant seasonal variation, with extreme levels consistently recorded from January to April and again in August through October. High-risk months for UV exposure include January, February, March, and April, where the UV index remains at a high 16, necessitating a burn time of just 10 minutes. While June and July present slightly lower values at 9 and 10 respectively, the risk remains classified as very high, with a burn time extending to 15 minutes. As we move into the latter months, from August to November, the UV index rises again to 12-15, maintaining an extreme exposure category. To ensure safety, both visitors and residents are strongly advised to limit sun exposure during peak hours, wear protective clothing, and regularly apply broad-spectrum sunscreen, especially during these high-risk months.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Satapuala | 16 | 16 | 16 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 10 | 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 |