Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in El Cacao, Dominican Republic, where the warm, tropical climate significantly increases sun exposure. With UV levels peaking at 13 around midday, awareness of these levels is essential for preventing sunburn and promoting overall skin health. As the sun's intensity can vary throughout the day, being informed about UV risks helps you take necessary precautions, whether it's applying sunscreen or seeking shade. Stay vigilant to protect yourself while enjoying the beautiful outdoors of El Cacao!
The UV Index during the day reveals a notable peak in sun exposure. Starting at 07:00 with a gentle 1, it gradually climbs to 2 by 08:00. As the sun rises higher, the index surges dramatically, hitting 5 at 09:00, and reaching a striking 8 by 10:00. The intensity peaks at 12:00 with a scorching 13, remaining high until 13:00. After that, it starts to decline, returning to 11 at 14:00 and falling to 8 by 15:00. As the afternoon wanes, the index drops to 5 at 16:00, and finally settles back to 1 by 18:00 and 19:00. This data highlights the importance of sun safety measures during the midday hours when UV exposure is at its highest.
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 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV exposure fluctuates significantly, with high-risk months identified from February to September, when the UV Index reaches extreme levels of 11 to 13, allowing for a burn time of just 10 minutes. Notably, March through August consistently maintain this high-risk designation, necessitating extra caution for visitors and residents alike. During the remaining months—January, November, and December—the UV Index ranges from 8 to 9, categorized as very high, with a burn time of 15 minutes, indicating the need for ongoing sun protection, though the risk diminishes slightly. It is crucial for everyone to prioritize skin safety by utilizing sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak UV hours, particularly in the spring and summer months.
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 |
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 |
El Cacao | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 8 |