Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in West End, Bahamas, is essential for both residents and visitors alike, given its significant impact on skin health and sunburn prevention. During the sunny days typical of this tropical climate, UV levels can soar as high as 12 at midday, indicating a critical risk for skin damage. Awareness of these fluctuating UV levels empowers everyone to take necessary precautions, like seeking shade or applying sunscreen, thus ensuring a safe and enjoyable outdoor experience in this vibrant paradise.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins at a mild 1 at 07:00, remaining steady through the early hours. However, by 09:00, it climbs to 3, signaling the start of stronger rays. The peak intensity strikes at 12:00, reaching an intense 11, followed closely by a maximum of 12 at 13:00 and 14:00, urging outdoor enthusiasts to take precautions. As the afternoon wanes, the index gradually decreases from 10 at 15:00 to a more manageable 4 by 17:00, and finally recedes to 2 at 18:00 before settling back at 1 as dusk approaches. It's a day that underscores the importance of sun safety, especially during its mid-day zenith!
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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 10 | 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, seasonal changes in UV exposure reflect significant shifts in the UV Index. From January to March, the UV Index rises from a high level of 6 to a very high 10, indicating a growing risk for skin damage. The months of April through September present the most critical danger, characterized by an extreme UV Index of 12, where the burn time diminishes to just 10 minutes. Following this peak, October sees a drop to 10 (very high), before conditions moderate in November and December, with indexes falling to 7 and 5, respectively. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during high-risk months, particularly from April to September. It is essential to limit sun exposure, wear protective clothing, apply sunscreen regularly, and seek shade to safeguard against skin damage during these periods of heightened UV intensity.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
West End | 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 UVI | 6 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 6 |