Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Lepea, Samoa is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health under the region's tropical sun. With a climate classified as Af, residents and visitors alike should be aware of the daily fluctuations in UV levels, especially during midday when the index peaks at a significant 9. This awareness is essential for preventing painful sunburns and long-term skin damage, making it vital to monitor these levels closely. As Lepea enjoys abundant sunshine, understanding the risk of UV exposure not only helps ensure a safe and enjoyable time outdoors but also supports healthier skin for years to come.
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 | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Lepea | 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 |