Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Quickstep, Jamaica, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin health. Understanding UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage, making it a vital part of your daily routine, especially in a tropical climate where the sun can be especially intense. With peak UV indices reaching as high as 13 around midday, residents and visitors must be aware of their exposure risks to enjoy the sunny days safely. By applying sun safety measures based on the UV Index, you can safeguard your skin while enjoying all that Quickstep has to offer under its radiant sun.
The UV Index data reveals a dynamic fluctuation throughout the day, peaking at a maximum of 13 around noon. The morning starts off gently, with readings of only 1 at 07:00 and 3 by 08:00, perfect for early risers. However, as the sun ascends, the intensity rises sharply, hitting a critical 10 by 10:00 and reaching its zenith at 12 by 11:00 and 13 by 12:00. The afternoon sees a gradual decline, with values dropping to 9 at 14:00, and then further sliding to 6 by 15:00. As evening approaches, the UV Index dwindles to 3 by 16:00, and finally tails off to 1 by 17:00, nurturing a calmer end to the day. With clear awareness of these fluctuations, individuals can effectively plan their outdoor activities, ensuring protection during the most intense hours.
| 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 | 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 |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variation, peaking during the mid-year months. January starts with a UV Index of 9, categorized as very high, allowing for a burn time of 15 minutes. However, as we move into February through October, the UV Index escalates to a maximum of 13, classified as extreme, with a dangerously short burn time of only 10 minutes. This extends from the intense sunshine of March through September, marking these months as critical for sun safety. As the year concludes, November and December see the UV Index drop to 9 and 8, respectively, both still in the very high category, allowing for longer burn times of 15 minutes again. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautionary measures during the high-risk months of February to October, such as wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade during peak sun hours.
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 |
| Quickstep | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 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 |