Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Hamilton, Bermuda, is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With the island's sunny climate, residents and visitors alike need to be aware of fluctuating UV levels that can lead to sunburn and increase the risk of skin damage. During peak hours, particularly between 11 AM and 2 PM, UV Index levels can soar to a striking 12, necessitating proactive measures to safeguard your skin. As you enjoy the beautiful Bermudian sun, staying informed about UV exposure risks is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience in this picturesque island setting.
The UV Index throughout the day presents a dramatic rise and fall in sun exposure. Starting at a gentle 1 in the early hours of 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM, the index swiftly climbs to 3 by 9:00 AM. As the sun reaches its peak, the UV index skyrockets to a maximum of 12 at 1:00 PM, indicating high levels of UV radiation. Even in the afternoon, the index remains noteworthy: 11 at 2:00 PM and 10 at 3:00 PM. As the day transitions towards evening, levels dip gradually to 4 by 5:00 PM, and further down to 1 by 7:00 PM. This data underscores the importance of sun protection, especially during the midday hours when UV exposure is at its peak.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal fluctuations, with the highest levels occurring from May to August, denoting extreme exposure risk, particularly in June and July when the index peaks at 12. During these high-risk months, the burn time decreases to just 10 minutes, underscoring the urgency for protective measures. Conversely, the UV Index starts at a moderate 5 in January and gradually rises, hitting 9 to 11 from March to October, then decreasing again to 4 in December. Visitors and residents should be especially vigilant from late spring through summer, using sun protection strategies such as applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours to mitigate the risks associated with high UV exposure. Remember, even on cloudy days, UV rays can penetrate through, so consistent protective measures are crucial year-round.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hamilton | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 6 | 4 |
| Saint George UVI | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 6 | 4 |