Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Vaitupu, Wallis and Futuna is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With high UV levels peaking around noon, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen can be the difference between enjoying the beautiful sunshine and experiencing painful sunburn. The tropical climate of Vaitupu brings an increased risk of harmful UV exposure, particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM, when the index can soar to dangerous levels of 12. Stay informed and protect yourself from the sun's harsh rays to enjoy the stunning landscapes of this island paradise safely!
The UV Index for the day reveals a dynamic pattern, peaking at a staggering 12 around noon. Starting from a low 1 at 07:00, the index escalates steadily, reaching 11 by 11:00 as the sun climbs higher. For those planning outdoor activities, 10:00 to 14:00 is critical, with indices soaring to 9 and then 12—a strong reminder to protect your skin. As the afternoon progresses, the UV Index begins its decline, dropping to 4 by 15:00 and then tapering off to 1 and ultimately 0 after 17:00. To sum up, stay safe and apply sunscreen during those peak hours!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
15:00 | 4 | 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 |