Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for anyone enjoying the sun-soaked landscapes of Las Vegas, Santa Barbara, or the tropical allure of Honduras. With UV levels peaking at a staggering 13 around midday, awareness is your first line of defense against sunburn and long-term skin damage. In Las Vegas and Santa Barbara, the arid and coastal climates respectively bring unique UV exposure risks, especially during peak hours when protective measures are essential. Stay informed about the UV Index to safeguard your skin and make the most of your sunny adventures!
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts at a mild 2 at 7:00 AM, making it a gentle beginning to the day. By 8:00 AM, it climbs to 4, hinting at the need for a bit of sun protection. The intensity reaches its peak between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM, soaring to a high of 13. This powerful midday sun calls for extra caution as the UV index hovers at this level for two consecutive hours before gradually tapering off. By 3:00 PM, the UV Index drops to 5 and continues to decline, hitting 1 by 5:00 PM. As evening approaches, the UV levels ease to 0 by 7:00 PM, wrapping up the day with a low-risk, sun-safe atmosphere. Enjoy the bright moments, but don’t forget your sunscreen during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 11:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, seasonal UV changes indicate varying levels of sun exposure that can significantly impact skin health. The high-risk months for UV exposure span from February to October, with the highest UV Index readings occurring in March, April, and May, where it reaches an extreme level of 14. During these months, the recommended burn time is just 10 minutes, emphasizing the need for protective measures. Even in January and November, UV levels are classified as very high, indicating that residents and visitors should remain vigilant year-round. To safeguard against harmful UV rays, it is advisable to wear protective clothing, use broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seek shade, especially during peak sun hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Choloma UVI | 10 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 9 |
| San Pedro Sula UVI | 10 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 9 |
| El Progreso UVI | 10 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 9 |
| Las Vegas, Santa Barbara | 10 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 9 |
| La Ceiba UVI | 10 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 9 |
| Tegucigalpa UVI | 11 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 10 |