Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Nassau, Bahamas. With its warm Aw climate, Nassau enjoys abundant sunshine, but this also means heightened exposure to UV rays, especially during peak hours. Knowing the UV levels not only aids in sunburn prevention but also plays a significant role in maintaining long-term skin health. For instance, during the midday hours, the UV Index can reach a staggering 12, indicating an extreme risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Staying informed about these levels is essential for enjoying the sun safely while exploring all that this beautiful paradise has to offer.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index reveals a dramatic shift in sun intensity. Early hours, from 07:00 to 09:00, maintain a mild UV Index of 1 to 3, perfect for a leisurely morning stroll. However, the sun climbs higher, and by 10:00, the index spikes to 6, signaling a shift. At 11:00, it reaches 9, and by noon, it peaks at a scorching 11, indicating high risk for unprotected skin. The intensity remains intense at 12:00 and 13:00, with both hours registering a 12—a clear call to seek shade or apply ample sunscreen. As the afternoon unfolds, the UV Index begins to wane, dropping to 9 at 15:00, then tapering down to 4 by 17:00. Finally, as the sun sets, the UV levels lighten to 2 at 18:00 and retreat to 1 by 19:00, marking the end of the day’s sunlit adventure. Stay protected during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | 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 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index varies significantly throughout the year, peaking during the late spring and summer months. From February to September, the UV Index reaches very high to extreme levels, with the highest recorded in June at 13, indicating a burn time of just 10 minutes. The months of March through September are particularly high-risk and demand extra caution; outdoor activities should be planned thoughtfully, with protective measures such as sunscreen, hats, and UV protective clothing. Conversely, January and December see lower UV levels (index 6), categorized as high, while October and November return to a very high index (8-10), still warranting protective actions. Visitors and residents are advised to remain vigilant about UV exposure, especially from February through September, to minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
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 |
| Nassau | 6 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 6 |