Last updated: July 2, 2025
Awareness of the UV Index is crucial in Fale Old Settlement, Tokelau, where the sun's rays can pose significant risks to skin health. Understanding UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and reducing the long-term effects of sun exposure, such as skin cancer. Given the tropical climate, residents and visitors alike must be vigilant, especially during midday when the UV Index peaks at 10, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. With the sun rising to a maximum intensity around noon, it’s essential to stay informed and take preventative measures to safeguard your skin while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of Fale Old Settlement.
As the sun rises, the UV Index remains low at 1 from 07:00 to 09:00, ideal for early morning outdoor activities. However, as the clock strikes 10:00, it escalates dramatically to 6, urging caution for midday sun exposure. The peak intensity occurs between 12:00 and 13:00, where the UV Index soars to its maximum at 10, signaling a high risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the afternoon unfolds, the index gradually declines, dropping to 8 at 14:00 and tapering down to 5 by 15:00. Finally, by 17:00, it dips back to 1, and by 19:00, it settles at 0, signaling the safe return of evening shadows. Be mindful of sun safety during those critical hours!
| 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | 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 experiences notable fluctuations throughout the year, with the highest values occurring from January to April, reaching a peak of 16 in February and March indicating an extreme exposure category where skin can burn in as little as 10 minutes. As we transition into the summer months, the UV Index slightly decreases, with readings of 10 in June and July categorized as very high, allowing for a 15-minute burn time. However, the risk remains significant, especially in August when it escalates back to 13. Following summer, September and October return to extreme levels with UV Index values of 14 and 15, reflecting a continued risk for skin damage, particularly for those spending extended periods outdoors. Residents and visitors should prioritize sun protection strategies throughout the year, particularly during high-risk months from January to April and again in August and September, by using broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize potential harm from UV exposure.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fale old settlement | 15 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 10 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 14 |
| Nukunonu UVI | 16 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 10 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 14 |
| Atafu Village UVI | 15 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 14 |