Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Vaitupu, Wallis and Futuna, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. Understanding UV levels helps residents and visitors alike to protect themselves from harmful sun exposure, particularly during peak hours when UV rays are strongest. Vaitupu's tropical climate presents unique challenges, with UV Index readings reaching as high as 10 at noon, emphasizing the importance of sun protection measures throughout the day. From wearing sunscreen to seeking shade, being informed can make all the difference for a safe and enjoyable outdoor experience in this beautiful island paradise.
The UV Index for today presents a compelling journey of sunlight intensity, peaking sharply around 12:00 PM with a maximum score of 10, signaling a powerful potential for skin damage. As the day progresses, we see a gradual ascent from a gentle 1 at 07:00 AM to the robust 9 at 11:00 AM, encouraging caution in the heart of the day. However, as the afternoon unfolds, the index gracefully declines, dropping to 6 by 02:00 PM and tapering off to an almost negligible 0 by 07:00 PM. This variation underscores the importance of sun safety measures during peak hours, particularly between 10 AM and 03 PM, when the sun is at its strongest. Don't forget your sunscreen!
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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
13:00 | 9 | 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 |
The UV Index shows significant seasonal changes, with extreme exposure levels persisting from January through May and again in August, September, October, and November, where a burn time of just 10 minutes is recommended. The highest risk months are January, February, March, and also April, when the UV Index peaks at 16, indicating a critical need for sun protection. June and July see a slight decrease, classified as very high, with a burn time of 15 minutes. As a result, both visitors and residents should exercise caution during high UV index months by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to minimize the risk of skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Vaitupu | 16 | 16 | 16 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 |
Utufua UVI | 16 | 16 | 16 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 |
Falaleu UVI | 16 | 16 | 16 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 |
Alele UVI | 16 | 16 | 16 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 |
Liku UVI | 16 | 16 | 16 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 |
Mata-Utu UVI | 16 | 16 | 16 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 |