UV Index in Portsmouth, Dominica

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Portsmouth, Dominica, awareness of the UV Index is vital for protecting your skin in the tropical sun. Understanding UV levels can help prevent sunburn and safeguard long-term skin health, ensuring you enjoy the beautiful outdoors without risk. With its tropical climate, Portsmouth typically experiences high UV exposure, particularly during peak hours between 10 AM and 3 PM, when the index can soar above 12. Stay informed about UV index readings to make safer choices for your day in the sun!

Hourly UV Index in Portsmouth

As the day unfolds, the UV Index rises dramatically, peaking at 13 around 12:00 PM, signaling a maximum level of sun intensity. Early morning hours start off mild, with a low of 1 at 07:00 and climbing steadily to 6 by 09:00. The sun reaches its zenith at 11:00, with a value of 12, before gradually declining through the afternoon. By 15:00, the index drops to 6, further falling to 3 by 16:00 and finally returning to a safe 1 by 17:00. As twilight approaches, the index settles to 0 after 19:00, providing a serene close to the day. Remember to protect your skin during the peak hours from 10 AM to 2 PM, when the sun's rays are most potent!

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	6	high	25 min
10:00	9	very high	15 min
11:00	12	extreme	10 min
12:00	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	9	very high	15 min
15:00	6	high	25 min
16:00	3	moderate	30 min
17:00	1	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Portsmouth

The UV Index shows significant seasonal variations, with the most intense exposure occurring from February through October, where the index reaches levels categorized as extreme. During these months, particularly in March, April, May, July, and August, the UV Index peaks at 13 to 14, indicating a very short burn time of just 10 minutes. January, November, and December feature lower UV levels, classified as very high, with slightly longer burn times of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should exercise caution during the high-risk months by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen frequently to mitigate the risk of UV-related harm.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Portsmouth, Dominica

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

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

Portsmouth's solar exposure compared to other cities in Dominica. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Marigot UVI	10	11	13	14	14	13	14	13	13	12	10	9
Portsmouth	10	11	13	14	14	13	14	13	13	12	10	9
Mahaut UVI	10	11	13	14	14	13	14	13	13	12	10	9
Roseau UVI	10	11	13	14	14	13	14	13	13	12	10	9
Berekua UVI	10	11	13	14	14	13	14	13	13	12	10	9