Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents of Old Road, Antigua and Barbuda, where sunny skies and tropical climate make outdoor activities irresistible. Being aware of UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburn, which can lead to long-term skin damage, but also promotes overall skin health. In this vibrant locale, UV exposure peaks dramatically around midday, with indices soaring to 14—indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Knowing how to protect yourself during these critical hours is key to enjoying the beautiful Caribbean sun safely.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its gradual ascent, starting at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it reaches 3, encouraging early risers to don some sunscreen. The intensity climbs sharply, peaking at an intense 14 by 12:00 PM, and staying robust at 13 until 1:00 PM. After this midday high, the index steadily declines, dropping to 7 by 3:00 PM, and to a gentle 1 by 5:00 PM. As the day winds down, the UV Index returns to its lowest point of 0 by 7:00 PM, marking a clear reminder of the sun's powerful rays and the importance of protection during 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 | 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 | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Old Road | 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 |
Saint John's UVI | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 9 |