UV Index in Montego Bay, Jamaica

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In the vibrant paradise of Montego Bay, Jamaica, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With the sun's intensity peaking at a UV Index of 13 during midday, understanding these levels can help prevent sunburns and long-term skin damage. Montego Bay's warm, tropical climate means residents and visitors face higher UV exposure risks, especially during the summer months. Being informed about the daily UV Index not only empowers you to enjoy the beautiful beaches safely but also helps you make smarter choices about sun protection and skin care.

Hourly UV Index in Montego Bay

As the day unfolds, the UV Index rises dramatically, peaking at 13 around 12:00 PM, signaling a maximum level of sun intensity. Early morning hours start off mild, with a low of 1 at 07:00 and climbing steadily to 6 by 09:00. The sun reaches its zenith at 11:00, with a value of 12, before gradually declining through the afternoon. By 15:00, the index drops to 6, further falling to 3 by 16:00 and finally returning to a safe 1 by 17:00. As twilight approaches, the index settles to 0 after 19:00, providing a serene close to the day. Remember to protect your skin during the peak hours from 10 AM to 2 PM, when the sun's rays are most potent!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
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	9	very high	15 min
11:00	12	extreme	10 min
12:00	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	9	very high	15 min
15:00	6	high	25 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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Montego Bay

The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal fluctuations, with the highest values recorded from February to September, during which the exposure category remains extreme or very high. In particular, March through August consistently holds a UV Index of 13, necessitating careful attention to sun safety measures. High-risk months for UV exposure are therefore February to September, where the recommended burn time is reduced to only 10 minutes for most days, highlighting the urgent need for protective measures such as sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing. Conversely, in January, November, and December, the UV Index decreases but remains noteworthy at 9 or 8, with burn times of 15 minutes. Therefore, visitors and residents are strongly advised to be vigilant about UV protection year-round, especially during the peak months when the potential for sunburn and long-term skin damage is markedly elevated.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Montego Bay, Jamaica

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Montego Bay. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Montego Bay, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Montego Bay UV Index with Other Jamaica Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Montego Bay compares to other major locations across Jamaica. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Montego Bay's solar exposure compared to other cities in Jamaica. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Montego Bay	9	11	13	13	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