Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Belmopan, Belize, as it serves as an essential tool for sunburn prevention and maintaining skin health. With its tropical climate, Belmopan experiences significant UV exposure, reaching peak levels as high as 13 around midday. By staying informed about UV levels, you can take the necessary precautions to protect yourself from harmful rays and embrace the sun safely. Whether you’re enjoying the outdoors or simply soaking up the vibrant local culture, being UV-aware helps ensure your time in this beautiful city remains enjoyable and healthy.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts at a mild 2 at 7:00 AM, making it a gentle beginning to the day. By 8:00 AM, it climbs to 4, hinting at the need for a bit of sun protection. The intensity reaches its peak between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM, soaring to a high of 13. This powerful midday sun calls for extra caution as the UV index hovers at this level for two consecutive hours before gradually tapering off. By 3:00 PM, the UV Index drops to 5 and continues to decline, hitting 1 by 5:00 PM. As evening approaches, the UV levels ease to 0 by 7:00 PM, wrapping up the day with a low-risk, sun-safe atmosphere. Enjoy the bright moments, but don’t forget your sunscreen during those peak hours!
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 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
11:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 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 shows significant seasonal variations, with the highest levels occurring from February to October, where the exposure category reaches extreme levels. March through April registers the highest index at 14. The months of February through October are particularly high-risk, with burn times as low as 10 minutes. During this critical period, it’s essential for visitors and residents to take proper precautions against UV radiation exposure, such as wearing protective clothing, using high-SPF sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours. In contrast, the months of November to January see a decline in UV intensity, though individuals should still remain cautious, particularly in January, with a UV Index of 9 and a burn time of 15 minutes.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Orange Walk UVI | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 8 |
San Pedro UVI | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 8 |
Belize City UVI | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 8 |
San Ignacio UVI | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 8 |
Belmopan | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 8 |