Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Marsh Harbour, Bahamas, where the sun shines brightly in a typical tropical climate. Being aware of UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburn but also plays a significant role in maintaining long-term skin health. With peak UV exposure reaching a high of 12 around midday, it’s essential to recognize the risks associated with outdoor activities. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can protect yourself and enjoy the beautiful sunny days in Marsh Harbour safely.
The UV Index reveals a dynamic shift throughout the day, starting from a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM and climbing steadily to a peak of 12 at 1:00 PM. Between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, sun exposure is most intense, with values reaching 9 and 11, making it crucial for outdoor activities to come with protective measures. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to decline, offering relief with readings of 9 at 3:00 PM, 7 at 4:00 PM, and tapering off to 2 by 6:00 PM. For evening relaxation, the UV Index settles back to a minimal 1 by 7:00 PM, providing a gentle close to the day's solar intensity.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV index levels exhibit significant seasonal variation, with the highest values occurring from March to September, where the index reaches an extreme level of 12. The high-risk months for UV exposure are February to September, particularly the peak months of March, April, May, June, July, and August. During these months, the recommended burn time is as short as 10 minutes, necessitating protective measures. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to limit sun exposure during peak hours, wear broad-spectrum sunscreen, and don protective clothing to mitigate the risk of skin damage. As the year progresses into October, the UV index begins to drop, suggesting a moderate level of risk, but caution should still be observed in the high-risk months of winter, such as January, November, and December, where the index still presents a high category.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
West End UVI | 6 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 5 |
Freeport UVI | 6 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 |
Lucaya UVI | 6 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 |
Cooper's Town UVI | 6 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 6 |
Marsh Harbour | 6 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 6 |
Nassau UVI | 6 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 6 |