Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Saint John's, Antigua and Barbuda is crucial for safeguarding your skin health against harmful ultraviolet radiation. With the region's tropical climate, where sun intensity peaks during midday hours, being aware of UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and reducing long-term skin damage. The UV Index can reach significant highs—up to 13 in peak hours—indicating an urgent need for protective measures. By taking note of these levels, residents and visitors alike can enjoy the breathtaking Caribbean sunshine while prioritizing their well-being.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index rises dramatically, peaking at 13 around 12:00 PM, signaling a maximum level of sun intensity. Early morning hours start off mild, with a low of 1 at 07:00 and climbing steadily to 6 by 09:00. The sun reaches its zenith at 11:00, with a value of 12, before gradually declining through the afternoon. By 15:00, the index drops to 6, further falling to 3 by 16:00 and finally returning to a safe 1 by 17:00. As twilight approaches, the index settles to 0 after 19:00, providing a serene close to the day. Remember to protect your skin during the peak hours from 10 AM to 2 PM, when the sun's rays are most potent!
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 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
During the year, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, with extreme levels prevalent from February through October. The highest risk months are March and July, where the UV Index peaks at 13 and 14, respectively, necessitating cautious sun exposure practices. For residents and visitors, it's crucial to stay informed about daily UV levels, especially during these high-risk months, and to adopt protective measures such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and UV-blocking clothing. Remember, even on cloudy days, UV rays can penetrate clouds; thus, it’s vital to remain vigilant throughout the year as burn times range from 10 to 15 minutes depending on the month.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Saint John's | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 9 |
Bolands UVI | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 9 |
Liberta UVI | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 9 |
Piggotts UVI | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 9 |
All Saints UVI | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 9 |