Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni, French Guiana, where the tropical climate presents unique challenges for skin health. With UV levels peaking at an intense 12 around midday, awareness of the UV Index can help in preventing sunburns and reducing the risk of long-term skin damage. Being situated in an Af climate zone, this region experiences considerable sunlight throughout the year, making it essential for locals and visitors alike to monitor these UV levels to enjoy outdoor activities safely while protecting their skin.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dramatic rise and fall, starting at a mild 1 at 07:00 and escalating to a peak of 12 by noon. As the sun reaches its zenith, the index remains at a strong 12 from 12:00 to 13:00, indicating a high risk for unprotected skin. Following this midday intensity, the UVI gradually decreases, dipping to 8 by 15:00, then dropping to 4 by 16:00. As the late afternoon approaches, the numbers decline further, landing at 2 by 17:00 and finally retreating to a safe 0 after sunset at 19:00. It's crucial to take precautions during those peak hours to ensure skin safety in such intense UV conditions!
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 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index remains notably high, with extreme exposure levels recorded from January to December. The peak months are March and April, where the UV Index reaches 16 and 15, respectively, indicating a particularly high risk for skin damage with a burn time of just 10 minutes. Even in the summer months, the Index stays elevated at 12-14, emphasizing the need for vigilance. Visitors and residents are advised to take preventive measures, such as applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, regardless of the month, as optimal sun safety practices are essential year-round due to the consistently severe burn times associated with this UV exposure.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Matoury UVI | 13 | 14 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 |
Remire-Montjoly UVI | 13 | 14 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 |
Cayenne UVI | 13 | 14 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 |
Kourou UVI | 13 | 14 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 |
Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni | 13 | 14 | 16 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 |