When does Puako need sun protection?

Whenever the UV index is 3 or above. In Puako that is every day of the year. The EPA Sun Safety action steps apply at the same threshold used worldwide.

Does Puako need sun protection in winter?

Usually yes. At 20.0°N, winter middays in Puako still commonly reach UV 3 or higher. Check today's live reading on this page before a long lunch outside.

Can you burn on a cool day in Puako?

Yes. UV is not heat. A cool, windy or lightly cloudy day in Puako can still sit at UV 3 or above, especially from spring through autumn. Temperature on this page is for context only; the UV number is what decides protection.

UV index in Puako today

Puako in Hawaii sits inland at 20.0°S, where dry air and fewer clouds often mean harsher UV than the temperature suggests. Summer middays typically reach 12–14 (extreme). This is tropical latitude: the UV index stays high on most days and does not take a winter off.

Live reading · data by Open-Meteo · reference monitoring by ARPANSA

Today and tomorrow in Puako

Peak UV, temperature and conditions for Puako. Tomorrow’s peak is the number to plan around if you’re heading out in the middle of the day.

Weather conditions right now

Cloud and rain cut heat more than they cut UV. A partly cloudy day in Puako can still sit at protection levels. Why you burn on cloudy days.

When Puako needs sun protection

Sun protection is needed in Puako every day of the year. Inland heat or a cool change does not change the UV index; go by the number, not how the day feels.

The threshold, per SunSmart and ARPANSA: whenever UV reaches 3 or above, Slip on covering clothing, Slop on SPF 50+ sunscreen, Slap on a hat, Seek shade and Slide on sunglasses. Read the full sun safety guide.

The UV scale at a glance

0–2Low
3–5Moderate
6–7High
8–10Very high
11+Extreme

Frequently asked questions

When does Puako need sun protection?: Whenever the UV index is 3 or above. In Puako that is every day of the year. The EPA Sun Safety action steps apply at the same threshold used worldwide.
Does Puako need sun protection in winter?: Usually yes. At 20.0°N, winter middays in Puako still commonly reach UV 3 or higher. Check today's live reading on this page before a long lunch outside.
Can you burn on a cool day in Puako?: Yes. UV is not heat. A cool, windy or lightly cloudy day in Puako can still sit at UV 3 or above, especially from spring through autumn. Temperature on this page is for context only; the UV number is what decides protection.