Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Sainte-Marie, Martinique, understanding the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin and overall health. With the region's tropical climate, where the sun's rays can be particularly intense, awareness of UV levels is crucial to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. During peak hours, the UV Index can soar to 14, highlighting the significant risk of harmful exposure. Staying informed about the UV Index empowers residents and visitors alike to take proactive measures, ensuring a safe and enjoyable time under the sun.
As the day begins, the UV Index starts off low at 1 around 7:00 AM, gradually climbing to 3 by 8:00 AM. The sun gains strength, and by 9:00 AM, the index reaches 6, signaling the need for sun protection. The peak intensity occurs between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, with a high of 14, indicating it’s crucial to shield your skin from harmful rays. The intensity starts to wane post-noon, dropping to 10 by 2:00 PM, and continuing to decline throughout the afternoon, falling back to 1 by 5:00 PM. As evening approaches, the UV exposure becomes minimal, with the index dropping to 0 by 7:00 PM. Stay aware of how the UV levels fluctuate throughout the day to enjoy the sun safely!
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 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 13 | 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 shows significant seasonal variations, with the most intense exposure occurring from February through October, where the index reaches levels categorized as extreme. During these months, particularly in March, April, May, July, and August, the UV Index peaks at 13 to 14, indicating a very short burn time of just 10 minutes. January, November, and December feature lower UV levels, classified as very high, with slightly longer burn times of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should exercise caution during the high-risk months by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen frequently to mitigate the risk of UV-related harm.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sainte-Marie | 10 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 9 |
Le Robert UVI | 10 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 9 |
Le Francois UVI | 10 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 9 |
Le Lamentin UVI | 10 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 9 |
Fort-de-France UVI | 10 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 9 |