UV Index in Punta Gorda, Belize

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Punta Gorda, Belize, as this beautiful coastal town experiences high levels of UV radiation throughout the day. Being aware of the UV levels can significantly impact sunburn prevention and overall skin health, helping to safeguard against the long-term damage caused by excessive sun exposure. With its tropical climate characterized by intense sunshine and elevated UV risks—especially between 10 AM and 2 PM—it's essential to stay informed and take proper precautions to enjoy the vibrant outdoors safely.

Hourly UV Index in Punta Gorda

The UV Index today displays a dynamic pattern, peaking at a striking 13 around 12:00 PM, signaling the strongest sun exposure of the day. Early risers will enjoy a low UV of just 2 at 7:00 AM, but as the sun ascends, the index climbs sharply, reaching 10 by 10:00 AM and hitting 12 at 11:00 AM. As the afternoon unfolds, it gradually dips to 9 at 2:00 PM and then decreases further to 6 by 3:00 PM. By the evening, the UV Index drops significantly, plummeting to 1 at both 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM, and falling to 0 by 7:00 PM. Stay safe and protect your skin during those 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	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Punta Gorda

Throughout the year, UV levels fluctuate significantly, peaking during the spring and summer months. January kicks off with a UV Index of 10 (very high), followed closely by February at 11 (extreme), and escalating to a maximum of 14 in April. The high-risk months for skin exposure are from February to October, where the index remains at 11 to 14 and burn time is drastically reduced to just 10 minutes for those months. This pattern stabilizes in November and December, seeing an improvement to 9 and 8, respectively, both categorized as very high but allowing for a longer burn time of 15 minutes. Residents and visitors should take precautionary measures during peak UV periods, such as wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and limiting sun exposure during midday hours to safeguard against harmful effects.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Punta Gorda, Belize

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

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

Punta Gorda's solar exposure compared to other cities in Belize. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
Punta Gorda	10	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