Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Santa Cruz del Sur, Cuba is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With the tropical climate of this coastal paradise, UV levels can soar, especially during midday when they reach a peak of 13. This means that without proper precautions, you’re at high risk for sunburn and long-term skin damage. By staying informed about daily UV levels, you can enjoy the sun safely while making choices that promote skin health and prevent harmful effects of excessive sun exposure. Whether it's seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, or applying sunscreen, being UV-aware is essential for a safe and enjoyable outdoor experience in this beautiful region.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dramatic rise in intensity, peaking at a staggering 13 around 1 PM. Starting off gently, the day begins with low readings of 1 at 7 AM and 8 AM, which quickly escalates as the sun climbs higher in the sky. By 10 AM, the index reaches 6, but it’s the hours between 11 AM and 1 PM that demand attention, with readings of 9, 11, and peaking at 13. After this zenith, a gradual decline is observed, dropping to 10 by 3 PM and resting at 2 by 6 PM. As the sun sets, the UV Index returns to its morning levels, signaling a day well spent under the sun—but with caution! Always remember to protect your skin during those high UV hours!
| 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 12 | 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal variation, with the highest values occurring from February to August, where it reaches an extreme peak of 13. January and December see very high levels with an index of 8, while November dips slightly to 9. The high-risk months for UV exposure are February through October, during which burn times are a mere 10 minutes. Residents and visitors should take precautionary measures during these months, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade whenever possible to avoid harmful UV radiation. As the UV intensity begins to decrease in November and December, caution should still be exercised, particularly during midday hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Havana UVI | 7 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 7 |
| Camaguey UVI | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 7 |
| Santa Cruz del Sur | 8 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 8 |
| Holguin UVI | 8 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 8 | 7 |
| Santiago de Cuba UVI | 9 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 8 |
| Guantanamo UVI | 9 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 8 |