Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Spanish Wells, Bahamas, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from the sun's harmful rays. Understanding UV levels can help you prevent sunburn and maintain long-term skin health, making it essential for locals and visitors alike. With a tropical climate that sees high UV exposure, especially during midday hours, being informed about UV Index readings can empower you to take necessary precautions and enjoy the outdoors safely. At times peaking at a level of 13, the intensity of sunlight in this beautiful locale calls for vigilant sun safety practices to ensure everyone can fully embrace their time in the sun without the risks.
The UV Index throughout the day presents a striking trajectory of rising intensity, peaking at 1 PM with a remarkable 13. Starting with a gentle 1 at 7 AM, the sun's rays gradually become more potent, hitting 10 at 11 AM and soaring to a critical 12 by noon. As the afternoon unfolds, the intensity remains strong, fluctuating between 12 and 9 from 1 PM to 3 PM, before gracefully tapering off. By 5 PM, the UV Index descends to 4, and as the day closes, it winds down to a soft 1 by 7 PM. Stay vigilant during those midday hours to protect your skin from the sun's fierce embrace!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 13 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels fluctuate significantly, reaching their peak during the warmer months. From January to December, the high-risk months for UV exposure are February through September, where the index consistently falls within the very high to extreme categories. Particularly alarming are March, April, May, June, July, August, and September, with a persistent index of 11 or higher, resulting in a burn time as short as 10 minutes. To protect against skin damage, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to take preventive measures during these months, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours when the sun's rays are strongest. As October to December approach, while the UV levels decrease, caution is still advised with burn times of 15 to 25 minutes in November and December. Always stay informed and protect your skin year-round!
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 |
| Spanish Wells | 6 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 |
| Nassau UVI | 6 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 6 |