Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Dessalines, Haiti, is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful ultraviolet radiation. With peak levels often reaching 13 during midday hours, awareness of the UV Index can help you prevent sunburn and protect your long-term skin health. Dessalines, characterized by its tropical Aw climate, boasts ample sunshine, making it essential for residents and visitors alike to understand the daily risks associated with UV exposure. Prioritizing UV safety not only enhances your outdoor enjoyment but also minimizes the risks of skin damage and related health issues.
The UV Index (UVI) throughout the day reflects a striking progression of intensity, peaking at 13 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, a clear signal for sun safety. Starting off at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM, it gradually climbs to 4 by 9:00 AM, then escalates sharply to 11 at 11:00 AM. As the sun reaches its zenith, the index hits its maximum at 12:00 PM, urging caution for those enjoying outdoor activities. After this peak, the UVI begins to taper off, descending to 2 by 5:00 PM and dropping to a safe 1 again by 7:00 PM. This hourly journey highlights the importance of sun protection, especially during midday when the UV rays are at their most potent. Stay protected!
| 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 | 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 | 12 | 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 Index levels exhibit significant seasonal changes, peaking during the spring and summer months. From January to February, the UV Index escalates from 9 (very high) to 11 (extreme), with a notably low burn time of just 10 minutes. The extreme levels persist from March to August, with the index reaching a maximum of 13 for six consecutive months, indicating a burn time of only 10 minutes. September and October slightly decline to 12 and 11, respectively, yet remain in the extreme category. As the year concludes, November and December return to 9 (very high) and 8 (very high), allowing for a longer burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take necessary precautions during the high-risk months of February through October, by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak UV hours to minimize the risk of skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Port-de-Paix UVI | 9 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 8 |
| Croix-des-Bouquets UVI | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 8 |
| Petionville UVI | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 8 |
| Delmas 73 UVI | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 8 |
| Port-au-Prince UVI | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 8 |
| Dessalines | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 8 |