Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Santa Cruz del Sur, Cuba, especially given its tropical climate and abundant sunshine. As UV levels can soar to extreme levels—peaking at a staggering 13 during midday—being aware of these changes is essential for sunburn prevention and maintaining overall skin health. With the sunniest hours showing a significant risk of skin damage, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen can make all the difference in enjoying the beautiful beaches and landscapes while safeguarding your well-being. Stay informed and enjoy the sun safely!
As the day unfolds, the UV Index reveals a dynamic sun intensity pattern. Starting with a cool 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, the UV rays begin to strengthen, climbing to 3 by 09:00. The sun reaches its zenith at 12:00, peaking at a blistering 12, before escalating to an impressive 13 at 13:00. Afterward, the intensity starts to wane, tapering off to 10 by 15:00 and then dropping back to 6 at 16:00. As evening approaches, the UV Index declines further, reaching a gentle 2 at 18:00 and settling back to 1 by the time the sun sets at 19:00. Enjoy the sunshine, but don’t forget to protect your skin during those peak 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 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
16:00 | 6 | 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 |