Last updated: June 2, 2025
In the sunny township of Williamsfield, Jamaica, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for ensuring skin health and preventing sunburn. Understanding UV levels not only helps you plan your outdoor activities safely but also protects you from the harmful effects of overexposure to ultraviolet rays. With a tropical climate that bathes the region in bright sunshine, Williamsfield sees its peak UV levels reach as high as 13 around midday. Therefore, staying informed about the UV Index can significantly contribute to a healthier lifestyle and safeguard against skin damage. Remember to take precautions during those peak hours to enjoy the beautiful Jamaican sun responsibly!
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a dynamic pattern of solar intensity. Starting from a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, the index escalates swiftly, peaking at a striking 13 by noon. This midday surge signals the need for sun protection as the index reaches its highest point at 12:00 PM, hovering around 12 to 13 until 1:00 PM. As the afternoon progresses, the intensity begins to wane, dropping to 10 by 2:00 PM and then descending steadily to 7 at 3:00 PM, 4 at 4:00 PM, and eventually dwindling to a safe 1 by 6:00 PM. After 7:00 PM, the UV level flatlines at 0, marking the end of peak sun exposure. Remember, during those peak hours, especially from 10 AM to 2 PM, it's vital to prioritize skin safety!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | 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 |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variation, peaking from February to September, with exceptionally high levels during March to September where it consistently reaches an extreme category of 13-14 and a burn time of just 10 minutes. January and November feature a very high UV Index of 9, while December and October see a slight decline to 8-12, with burn times increasing to 15 minutes. Given these readings, it is crucial for visitors and residents to exercise caution during the high-risk months of February through September, particularly in the height of summer when UV exposure is most intense. It is advisable to wear protective clothing, apply broad-spectrum sunscreen liberally, and seek shade during peak sun hours to minimize the risk of skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Montego Bay UVI | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 9 | 8 |
| Williamsfield | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 9 | 8 |
| Mandeville UVI | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 9 | 8 |
| Portmore UVI | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 9 | 8 |
| Spanish Town UVI | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 9 | 8 |
| Kingston UVI | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 9 | 8 |