Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Las Terrenas, Dominican Republic, where the tropical climate offers abundant sunshine year-round. Awareness of UV levels helps prevent sunburn and protects skin health, especially during peak hours when the UV Index can soar to a high of 12. With typical exposure risks peaking between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, knowing when to seek shade is essential for enjoying this stunning coastal paradise while safeguarding your skin from harmful rays. Stay informed, stay protected, and make the most of your time in this beautiful destination!
As the sun climbs higher in the sky, the UV Index reaches its peak around noon, peaking at a striking 12 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM. The day begins with a gentle start—just a 1 at 7:00 AM, gradually rising to 2 by 8:00 AM. By 10:00 AM, the intensity escalates to an 8, followed by a stunning 10 at 11:00 AM. As the clock strikes noon, the UV Index hits its zenith at 12, signaling the strongest solar radiation of the day. The intensity begins to wane, dropping back to 10 at 2:00 PM, before tapering off to 5 at 4:00 PM. As evening approaches, the UV Index gently descends to 1 by 6:00 PM, heralding the end of a radiant day. Stay protected during those peak hours, especially from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant seasonal fluctuations, with the highest levels occurring from February to September. During these months, the UV Index reaches extreme levels of 11 to 13, resulting in a critical burn time of just 10 minutes—indicating a heightened risk for sunburn and skin damage. January, November, and December still present very high UV levels (9 and 8), but with a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautionary measures during high UV months by wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours to minimize the risk of harmful exposure. Stay vigilant and prioritize skin safety year-round!
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Las Terrenas | 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 |