UV Index in West Bay, Cayman Islands

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in West Bay, Cayman Islands is crucial for anyone seeking to enjoy the beautiful sunshine while protecting their skin. Given the Caribbean's tropical climate, where UV levels can peak as high as 13 around noon, awareness of these fluctuations is vital for sunburn prevention and long-term skin health. With typical exposure risks soaring between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., knowledge of the UV Index helps residents and visitors alike make informed choices about sun safety, ensuring that your time in this stunning locale remains fun and burn-free!

Hourly UV Index in West Bay

The UV Index begins at a mild level of 1 at 07:00, but as the sun climbs higher, it swiftly escalates. By 10:00, it peaks at a critical 9, reaching a maximum of 13 at 12:00, indicating that protective measures are essential. After noon, the index gradually declines, tapering to 7 by 15:00, before dipping to a 2 by 17:00, and finally settling at 0 by 19:00 as the sun sets. This data highlights the importance of sun safety during the hours when UV exposure is at its highest, particularly around midday.

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	1	low	45 min
08:00	3	moderate	30 min
09:00	5	moderate	30 min
10:00	9	very high	15 min
11:00	11	extreme	10 min
12:00	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	10	very high	15 min
15:00	7	high	25 min
16:00	4	moderate	30 min
17:00	2	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in West Bay

The UV index exhibits significant seasonal variation, peaking during the late spring and summer months, specifically from March to October, where levels reach an extreme category. March through June show particularly high indices, consistently at 13 with a burn time of only 10 minutes, representing the months of highest risk. Visitors and residents should be especially cautious from April to August, when the risk is at its peak, and daily sun protection is essential. January through February and November to December see reduced UV exposure, categorized as very high, with a longer burn time of 15 minutes. It's advisable for everyone to adopt sun safety measures during all months, but especially during the high-risk periods, including wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for West Bay, Cayman Islands

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in West Bay. 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 West Bay, 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 West Bay UV Index with Other Cayman Islands Cities

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

West Bay's solar exposure compared to other cities in Cayman Islands. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
North Side UVI	9	11	12	13	13	13	12	13	12	11	9	8
East End UVI	9	11	12	13	13	13	12	13	12	11	9	8
Bodden Town UVI	9	11	12	13	13	13	12	13	12	11	9	8
George Town UVI	9	11	12	13	13	13	12	13	12	11	9	8
West Bay	9	10	12	13	13	13	12	12	12	11	9	8