Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Savanna-la-Mar, Jamaica, where the tropical climate can lead to high levels of ultraviolet radiation. With peak UV levels often reaching as high as 13 around midday, awareness is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. Savanna-la-Mar's warm, sunny weather means spending time outdoors is a delight, but it also comes with heightened risks of UV exposure. Being informed about UV levels helps you take proactive measures to enjoy the sun safely, ensuring you can relish Jamaica's beauty while keeping your skin protected.
The UV Index showcases a dynamic increase throughout the day, peaking at 13 around 12:00 PM. Starting from a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, the index steadily climbs as the sun ascends, reaching 6 by 9:00 AM. The intensity becomes palpable by 11:00 AM with a sharp rise to 12, before hitting its zenith at 13 at noon, prompting caution for outdoor activities. As the afternoon unfolds, the levels begin to decline, dipping to 10 by 2:00 PM and gradually falling to 0 by 7:00 PM, signaling safer conditions for evening strolls. It’s essential to stay protected during the midday hours when the sun's rays are most intense!
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 | 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 reveals significant seasonal changes in sun exposure, with the highest risk months occurring from February to September, where the index consistently reaches levels classified as extreme (UV Index 11-13) and a burn time of just 10 minutes. Notably, March to August maintain a peak UV Index of 13, signaling particularly dangerous conditions for skin exposure. In contrast, January, November, and December present a very high risk (UV Index 8-9) but allow for slightly longer burn times of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during the high-risk months by applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize UV-related health risks.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Savanna-la-Mar | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 8 |
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 |