UV Index in Jamaica, Cuba

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for anyone living in or visiting Jamaica and Cuba, where the tropical climate often exposes residents and tourists to high levels of ultraviolet radiation. Awareness of UV levels not only helps in preventing painful sunburns but also plays a vital role in maintaining long-term skin health. With peak UV Index values soaring to 12 during midday, the risk of harmful effects from the sun is significant. In these sun-soaked islands, where the warm, inviting weather encourages outdoor activities, being informed about UV exposure risks is essential for enjoying the sun safely.

Hourly UV Index in Jamaica

As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off low at a manageable 1 from 07:00 to 08:00. However, things heat up quickly as we move into the late morning; by 10:00, it spikes to 5, reaching 8 at 11:00. The peak intensity occurs at 12:00, with an impressive index of 11, closely followed by 12 at 13:00 and 14:00—the sun is at its strongest! A gradual decrease follows, dropping to 10 by 15:00 and continuing down to 4 at 17:00. As the day winds down, the index relaxes further to 2 at 18:00 and returns to a safe 1 by 19:00. It's clear that today's UV risk peaks around midday, so remember to stay protected during those exposed 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	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	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Jamaica

Throughout the year, UV Index levels fluctuate significantly, with the highest values occurring from March to September. The most critical months for UV exposure are March through September, where the index reaches extreme levels, particularly in June at a peak of 13, resulting in a burn time of just 10 minutes. In contrast, January, December, and November offer lower UV exposure, with burn times of 25 minutes and 15 minutes, indicating a safer period for outdoor activities. It is vital for both visitors and residents to adopt protective measures during the high-risk months, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to minimize the risk of skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Jamaica, Cuba

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

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

Jamaica's solar exposure compared to other cities in Cuba. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Jamaica	7	10	11	12	12	13	12	12	12	10	8	7
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
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