UV Index in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

Last updated: August 1, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic. With its tropical climate and abundant sunshine, the region presents significant UV exposure risks, particularly during the midday hours. Knowing the UV levels can help you take proactive measures to prevent sunburn and protect your skin health, ensuring that your time outdoors remains enjoyable and safe. As the UV Index peaks at a staggering 13 around noon, awareness and precautions become essential for everyone aiming to bask in the beauty of this stunning locale while safeguarding their skin against harmful effects.

Hourly UV Index in Puerto Plata

As the day unfolds, the UV Index steadily rises, peaking at a staggering 13 by 1:00 PM, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Early morning hours start with a modest 1 at 7:00 AM, increasing to 2 by 8:00 AM. By 10:00 AM, the index climbs to 7, and by 11:00 AM, it reaches 10, prompting serious sun protection measures. The intensity wanes in the afternoon, dropping to 8 at 3:00 PM, before descending further to 3 by 5:00 PM. As dusk approaches, the UV Index dwindles to a safe 1 by 6:00 PM, leaving us with a stark reminder of the sun's power during peak hours in the middle of the day.

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	2	low	45 min
09:00	4	moderate	30 min
10:00	7	high	25 min
11:00	10	very high	15 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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Puerto Plata

Throughout the year, the UV Index shows significant seasonal variation, with the highest levels occurring from February to September. The most critical months for UV exposure are February, March, April, May, July, and August, where the UV Index consistently reaches extreme levels (above 11) with a burn time as short as 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should take precautions during these high-risk months by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying broad-spectrum sunscreen frequently. As the year progresses into the later months, while the UV Index decreases slightly, it is still advisable to remain vigilant, especially in November and December when the UV levels are at very high (9) and high (8), respectively, as 15-minute burn times can still pose a risk.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Puerto Plata. 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 Puerto Plata, 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 Puerto Plata UV Index with Other Dominican Republic Cities

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

Puerto Plata's solar exposure compared to other cities in Dominican Republic. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Puerto Plata	9	11	13	13	13	12	13	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