Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Bath, Jamaica, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful ultraviolet rays. With the region's tropical climate, the sun can be relentless, leading to an increased risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. By staying informed about the daily UV levels, especially during peak hours when readings can soar to 13, you can take proactive measures to protect your skin health. Whether you're enjoying the vibrant outdoors or simply relaxing in the sun, awareness of UV exposure can significantly reduce the risks associated with sun exposure.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, peaking at 13 around noon, making it a crucial time for sun safety. Starting at a modest 2 at 7:00 AM, the index steadily climbs, hitting 4 by 8:00 AM, and then surging to 10 at 10:00 AM. The intensity peaks at 12:00 PM, marked by a high of 13, before gradually declining to 6 by 3:00 PM. As the afternoon wanes, the values drop further, ending the day at a safe 0 by 7:00 PM. It’s clear that midday is the time to be sun-smart and protect your skin!
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 | 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 | 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 |
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 |
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 |
Bath | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 9 | 8 |