Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Progresso, Belize is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful UV radiation. As a tropical region characterized by its warm, sunny climate, residents and visitors alike need to be aware of the varying levels of UV exposure throughout the day. High UV Index levels, particularly from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, can lead to severe sunburns and long-term skin health issues if not managed properly. Staying informed about UV levels not only helps in preventing immediate skin damage but also promotes better overall skin health. With typical daily fluctuations peaking at a UV Index of 13, the importance of sun protection in Progresso cannot be overstated—it's time to take UV awareness seriously for a healthier, sun-safe experience in this beautiful destination!
The UV Index for today presents a dynamic range, peaking significantly during the midday hours. Starting at a mild 2 at 07:00, the index climbs steadily to a moderate 4 by 08:00. However, as the sun rises higher, it surges to a striking 11 at 10:00, reaching its zenith with a critical 13 by 11:00 and holding steady until 12:00. As the afternoon sets in, the index begins a descent, tapering off to 12 at 13:00, then dropping to 9 by 14:00. The late afternoon brings further relief, with readings declining to 6 at 15:00, and continuing downwards to 1 by 17:00. As the sun retreats, the index falls to 0 by 19:00, marking a dramatic end to the day's UV exposure. Remember to protect your skin during those peak hours to enjoy the sunshine safely!
| 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 | 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 experiences significant variations throughout the year, reaching its peak during the spring and summer months. From January to April, the UV levels start at 9 and escalate to 14 by April, indicating an extreme exposure category with a rapid decrease in burn time to just 10 minutes. This high-risk period continues through May to October, where the UV Index remains at 12 to 13, maintaining the extreme classification and a burn time of 10 minutes. In November and December, the UV Index decreases to 9 and 8 respectively, categorized as very high, with burn times extending to 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should take proactive measures, especially from February to October, by wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak hours to minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Progresso | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 8 |
| 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 UVI | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 8 |