Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Holetown, Barbados, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin under the tropical sun. Understanding the UV levels helps you take proactive measures against sunburn and long-term skin damage, ensuring you enjoy sunny days to the fullest. With the island's warm climate, it’s important to note that UV exposure peaks around midday, reaching a maximum index of 13 at noon. This elevated risk makes it essential to keep an eye on the UV Index daily and adopt sun safety practices, from wearing protective clothing to applying sunscreen regularly. Stay informed and safeguard your skin while relishing the vibrant Caribbean lifestyle!
At 07:00, the UV Index starts off gently at 1, making it a safe time for morning activities. By 08:00, it rises to 3, indicating moderate levels of UV radiation. The sun begins to assert its dominance by 09:00, with the index climbing to 7, pushing outdoor enthusiasts to seek shade. 10:00 marks a significant peak at 10, and by 11:00, it reaches 12—a dangerous level where sun protection becomes crucial. The highest point occurs at 12:00, with the UV Index soaring to 13, suggesting that even brief exposure can lead to skin damage. From 13:00 to 14:00, it gently decreases to 12 and 9, respectively, but still warrants caution. As afternoon fades into evening, the index tapers off, dropping to 6 at 15:00 and further down to 3 by 16:00. Finally, the sun's intensity dwindles in the early evening, with indices falling to 1 by 17:00, 1 at 18:00, and reaching a low of 0 by 19:00. Plan your outdoor activities wisely to stay safe under the sun!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variations, peaking between February and September where it consistently reaches an extreme level, with values between 12 and 14 and a notably short burn time of just 10 minutes. April and September mark the highest recorded indices, both at 14, signifying these as critical months for sun exposure. In contrast, November and December have a UV Index of 10, categorized as very high, with a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during these high-risk months, including wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours when the sun's intensity is greatest.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Holetown | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 10 |
| Bathsheba UVI | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 10 |
| Oistins UVI | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 10 |
| Speightstown UVI | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 10 |
| Bridgetown UVI | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 10 |