UV Index in Bridgetown, Barbados

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Bridgetown, Barbados, is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With high UV levels peaking at 14 during midday, it’s essential for residents and visitors alike to be aware of sun exposure risks—especially as Barbados enjoys a sunny, tropical climate year-round. By grasping the importance of these UV ratings, you can take proactive steps to prevent painful sunburns and long-term skin damage, ensuring that your time in this beautiful destination remains both enjoyable and safe.

Hourly UV Index in Bridgetown

The UV Index throughout the day shows a significant rise, peaking dramatically between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, when it reaches a maximum of 14. Early morning hours start off relatively mild, with a 2 at 7:00 AM, gradually climbing to 4 by 8:00 AM. As the sun rises higher, 9:00 AM sees a notable leap to 7, followed by an intense 10 at 10:00 AM. The 11:00 AM mark escalates to 13, making the midday sun a prime time for sun protection. After this peak, the index begins to decline, tapering to 12 at 1:00 PM, and descending through the afternoon to 6 by 3:00 PM. As evening approaches, the UV Index drops sharply, concluding at 0 by 7:00 PM. This data emphasizes the importance of UV awareness during peak hours.

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	2	low	45 min
08:00	4	moderate	30 min
09:00	7	high	25 min
10:00	10	very high	15 min
11:00	13	extreme	10 min
12:00	14	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Bridgetown

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Bridgetown, Barbados

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Bridgetown. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Bridgetown, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Bridgetown UV Index with Other Barbados Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Bridgetown compares to other major locations across Barbados. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Bridgetown's solar exposure compared to other cities in Barbados. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Bridgetown	11	12	13	14	14	13	13	13	14	13	10	10
Holetown UVI	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