Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Santa Clara, Cuba, where the tropical climate offers plenty of sun but also poses significant risks for skin health. High UV levels, peaking from midday to mid-afternoon, can lead to painful sunburn and long-term skin damage if precautions aren't taken. With the UV Index frequently soaring to levels as high as 13, awareness is essential for effective sun protection. By keeping an eye on UV levels, you can enjoy the beautiful Cuban sunshine while safeguarding your skin—because in Santa Clara, sun safety is a year-round necessity!
As the sun rises on this bright day, the UV Index starts off relatively low, peaking at just 1 at both 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM. However, by 9:00 AM, it jumps to 3, signaling an increase in UV exposure. The intensity escalates quickly, reaching a notable 6 by 10:00 AM. The real intensity hits its peak at 12:00 PM, when the UV Index soars to a striking 12, followed closely by a high of 13 at 1:00 PM. Over the next few hours, the index gradually diminishes, but still remains significant with 10 at 3:00 PM and 7 by 4:00 PM. As evening approaches, the levels continue to decline, returning to 1 once dusk settles in at 7:00 PM. Be sure to protect your skin!
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 | 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, UV Index levels exhibit significant seasonal changes, with the highest risk occurring from March to September. During these months, the UV Index reaches its peak at 13, categorized as extreme, resulting in a burn time of only 10 minutes, emphasizing the need for heightened sun protection. February also presents a high risk with an Index of 10 and a burn time of 15 minutes. As the year transitions, January and December have a lower UV Index of 7 (high), allowing for longer exposure times of 25 minutes, yet caution is still advised. Residents and visitors are strongly encouraged to adopt sun safety measures, especially during the high-risk months, including wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sun 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 |
Santa Clara | 7 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 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 |