Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for everyone in Port-Vila, Vanuatu, a tropical paradise where the sun shines brightly and health risks from UV exposure are heightened. Awareness of UV levels is crucial for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health, particularly given that Port-Vila experiences significant UV radiation throughout the day. With peak UV Index values reaching 10 around noon, residents and visitors alike must stay informed to enjoy the beautiful, warm climate safely while minimizing the risk of skin damage. By monitoring UV levels, you can make informed decisions about sun protection and keep your skin healthy during those sun-soaked days.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a notable peak from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, where it reaches a high of 10, indicating very high levels of UV radiation and a strong need for sun protection. This intense sunlight starts to build up at 9:00 AM with a reading of 5, escalating to 8 by 10:00 AM. As the afternoon unfolds, the index gradually declines, dropping to 6 at 2:00 PM, followed by a significant decrease back to 3 by 3:00 PM. By the evening, the UV levels return to safe numbers, tapering off to 1 at 4:00 PM and 0 by 6:00 PM, prompting a welcome end to the day’s sun exposure. Always remember to take precautions during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV index levels exhibit seasonal variations, with certain months presenting a higher risk for skin damage. January through April see extremely high UV levels, peaking at 16, indicating a burn time of just 10 minutes. As we transition into May and June, the risk slightly lowers to very high levels (UV index 10 and 8, respectively), allowing for longer exposure times of 15 minutes. However, July through September continue to show elevated UV indices, particularly August, which returns to an extreme level of 12. As we move into the fall, October and November maintain high UV ratings, ultimately returning to extreme levels of 14 and 15 respectively, with persistent burn times of 10 minutes. Given this data, it's essential for residents and visitors alike to take precautions — wear sunscreen, protective clothing, and seek shade during peak hours, especially from January to April and during August to November, to mitigate the risk of UV exposure.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Isangel UVI | 16 | 16 | 15 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 16 |
| Port-Vila | 16 | 16 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 9 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 15 |
| Norsup UVI | 16 | 16 | 16 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 14 | 15 |
| Luganville UVI | 16 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 11 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 14 | 15 |
| Port-Olry UVI | 16 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 11 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 15 |