Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Kulia Village, Tuvalu is crucial for residents and visitors alike, as it plays a vital role in safeguarding skin health and preventing sunburn. With a tropical climate and a high likelihood of intense sun exposure, awareness of UV levels helps in making informed decisions about outdoor activities. During peak hours, UV readings can soar to a hazardous 11, emphasizing the importance of taking protective measures, especially for those partaking in leisure or work under the sun. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Kulia Village while prioritizing your health and well-being.
The UV Index begins its ascent at 07:00 with a low reading of 1, gradually rising to 2 by 08:00. As the day progresses, the intensity of UV radiation peaks at 12:00, hitting a maximum of 11—a critical level where sun protection is essential. Following this zenith, the index starts to decline, measuring 10 at 13:00, then tapering off to 8 by 14:00. By mid-afternoon, the UV Index drops to 5 at 15:00 and continues its downward trajectory, reaching 2 at 16:00. As the sun sets, the UV index decreases to 1 by 17:00 and ultimately settles at 0 by 18:00, signifying the end of significant UV exposure for the day. It's a reminder that while the sun's rays can be intense at midday, the morning and late afternoon offer safer conditions for outdoor activities.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index remains consistently high, with extreme exposure levels noted from January to April, peaking at 16. The high-risk months for UV exposure, where the potential for skin damage is greatest, are February through April, when the UV Index remains at its peak. While there is a slight dip from June to July, the index stays above 11, indicating that precautions should still be taken. With burn times consistently around 10 minutes, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to take appropriate measures, such as wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours, especially in these high-risk months. Staying informed about UV levels will help ensure safety while enjoying outdoor activities.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kulia Village | 15 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 14 |
| Funafuti UVI | 16 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 14 |
| Motufoua School UVI | 15 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 |
| Savave Village UVI | 15 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 14 |
| Toga Village UVI | 15 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 14 |
| Tanrake Village UVI | 15 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 14 |