Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in San Nicolas, Aruba, where the sun shines brightly throughout the year. Knowing the UV levels can help you avoid painful sunburns and maintain healthy skin, ensuring your outdoor experiences are both enjoyable and safe. With a tropical climate characterized by high UV exposure—particularly peaking at a staggering UV Index of 13 between noon and 1 PM—it's essential to be proactive about sun protection strategies. Stay informed and protect yourself against the intense rays that define this beautiful island paradise!
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a dynamic pattern that peaks dramatically around noon. Starting from 1 at 07:00, it gradually climbs to 2 by 08:00, then elevates sharply to 5 at 09:00. The sun’s strength intensifies significantly, reaching a peak of 13 by 12:00 and maintaining this intensity until 13:00. As the afternoon progresses, the UV index begins to decline, dropping to 11 at 14:00, and further down to 8 by 15:00. The evening brings a gentle descent, winding down to 1 at 18:00 and resting at 0 by 19:00. For outdoor enthusiasts, it's clear that the midday hours demand vigilance against sun exposure, while the early morning and late afternoon provide more comfortable UV conditions.
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 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index in this region shows extreme levels throughout most of the year, with the highest values occurring from March to May, peaking at 14. Notably, the high-risk months for sun exposure are March and April, where individuals have only 10 minutes before risking sunburn. From June to October, the UV Index remains steady at 13, posing a consistent risk for residents and visitors alike. As November and December roll in, the UV Index slightly decreases, yet remains in the very high to extreme categories, with burn times increasing to 15 minutes in December. To protect against UV damage, it is crucial for everyone to seek shade, wear protective clothing, and apply sunscreen diligently, especially during the peak months.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
San Nicolas | 11 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 10 |
Paradera UVI | 11 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 10 |
Santa Cruz UVI | 11 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 10 |
Tanki Leendert UVI | 11 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 10 |
Oranjestad UVI | 11 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 10 |