Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Santa Cruz de Barahona, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. This vibrant region, blessed with a warm tropical climate, experiences high UV exposure, particularly during midday hours when the index peaks at 13. With values soaring past 11, there’s a significant risk of sunburn, making it essential to be proactive in safeguarding yourself against harmful ultraviolet rays. By staying informed about daily UV levels, you can take appropriate precautions, ensuring that your time under the sun is both enjoyable and safe. Remember, a little awareness goes a long way in maintaining your skin health while basking in the beauty of this stunning part of the Dominican Republic!
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a stark contrast between early morning and peak sunlight hours. Starting at a mere 1 at 07:00, it gradually escalates to reach its zenith of 13 by 12:00. This intense period of solar radiation maintains a high level of 13 until 13:00, offering optimal conditions for sunbathers while urging caution for those with sensitive skin. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins its decline, dropping to 8 by 15:00 and further to 5 by 16:00. As the sun sets, the UV Index retreats to 2 at 17:00 and finally to a tranquil 1 by evening, reminding us of the day's vibrant solar journey.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index experiences significant fluctuations throughout the year, with the highest levels observed from February to August, where it consistently reaches extreme levels of 11 to 13. March, April, May, June, and August mark the highest-risk months, with 10 minutes being the maximum safe exposure time before burning occurs. January, November, and December represent months of very high UV exposure, with slightly longer burn times of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during these high-risk months by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade when possible, especially during peak sun hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Santa Cruz de Barahona | 9 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 8 |
| Santiago de los Caballeros UVI | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 8 |
| Santo Domingo Oeste UVI | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 8 |
| Santo Domingo UVI | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 8 |
| Santo Domingo Este UVI | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 8 |
| San Pedro de Macoris UVI | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 8 |