Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Tonate, French Guiana, is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With a tropical climate that exposes residents to the sun's rays year-round, awareness of UV levels is key to preventing sunburn and reducing the risk of skin damage. During peak hours, such as from 11 AM to 1 PM, the UV Index can soar to dangerous levels of 13, indicating a minimal time for safe sun exposure without protection. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful sunshine of Tonate while taking the necessary steps to safeguard your skin health.
The UV Index throughout the day follows a distinct pattern of rising intensity and eventual decline. Starting at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM, it quickly ramps up, reaching 2 by 8:00 AM and hitting 5 by 9:00 AM. The sun climbs higher, peaking at 13 during the midday hours from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, a time when protective measures are essential. As the afternoon progresses, the index gently descends to 10 at 2:00 PM and further dips to 7 by 3:00 PM. The sun begins to wane, bringing not only a cooler feel but also a significant drop to 2 by 5:00 PM and finishing the day at a safe 0 after 7:00 PM. For those basking in the sunlight, these shifts serve as timely reminders to stay protected during peak hours!
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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 7 | high | 25 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, extreme UV levels persist in this region, with the highest UV Index recorded from February to April, peaking at 16. March and April are particularly noteworthy for their elevated risk, as average burn time remains consistent at just 10 minutes across months. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautionary measures during these high-risk months, including wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours. The consistent extreme exposure category across the year underscores the need for heightened awareness and protection against harmful UV radiation.
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 |
Tonate | 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 UVI | 13 | 14 | 16 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 |