UV Index in Speightstown, Barbados

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Awareness of the UV Index is crucial in Speightstown, Barbados, where the tropical climate brings not only sunny days but also heightened exposure to harmful ultraviolet rays. Understanding these UV levels is essential for sunburn prevention and maintaining skin health, especially during peak hours when readings soar to a maximum of 14 around noon. With typical UV risks peaking during the day, residents and visitors alike should stay informed to better protect themselves from potential skin damage while enjoying the beautiful Caribbean sun.

Hourly UV Index in Speightstown

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 Speightstown

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 Speightstown, Barbados

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Speightstown. 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 Speightstown, 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 Speightstown UV Index with Other Barbados Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Speightstown 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.

Speightstown'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
Speightstown	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
Bridgetown UVI	11	12	13	14	14	13	13	13	14	13	10	10