Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the residents and visitors of Phaeton, Haiti, where the warm, tropical climate brings with it significant sun exposure risks. With UV levels reaching a peak of 13 around midday, awareness of these fluctuations is essential for sunburn prevention and overall skin health. Being informed about UV levels allows individuals to take protective measures—whether seeking shade or applying sunscreen—to avoid harmful effects like skin damage and increased cancer risk. As Phaeton experiences mostly sunny weather typical of the Aw climate zone, paying attention to UV Index readings helps ensure that outdoor activities remain safe and enjoyable.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index steadily rises, peaking at a staggering 13 by 1:00 PM, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Early morning hours start with a modest 1 at 7:00 AM, increasing to 2 by 8:00 AM. By 10:00 AM, the index climbs to 7, and by 11:00 AM, it reaches 10, prompting serious sun protection measures. The intensity wanes in the afternoon, dropping to 8 at 3:00 PM, before descending further to 3 by 5:00 PM. As dusk approaches, the UV Index dwindles to a safe 1 by 6:00 PM, leaving us with a stark reminder of the sun's power during peak hours in the middle of the day.
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 | 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 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 |
Phaeton | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 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 |