UV Index in Florida, Puerto Rico

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Florida and Puerto Rico, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels is essential not only for preventing painful sunburns but also for safeguarding against long-term skin damage and conditions like skin cancer. With the region's tropical climate and high UV exposure—reaching a maximum of 14 around midday—it's vital to stay informed of daily UV forecasts. By knowing when the sun's rays are most intense, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors while taking the necessary precautions to ensure your skin remains safe and healthy.

Hourly UV Index in Florida

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting from a gentle 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it climbs to 3, signaling the need for increased sun protection. The intensity peaks dramatically at 12:00 with a scorching 14, marking the most hazardous sun exposure period of the day. Just before noon, at 11:00, the UV Index hits 12, a warning to stay in the shade. By 14:00, it begins its descent, dropping to 11 and continuing down to a mild 4 by 16:00. The evening brings relief as the index falls to 0 by 19:00, allowing for a safe outdoor experience as the sun sets. Stay aware and protect your skin during those peak hours to enjoy your day safely!

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	14	extreme	10 min
13:00	13	extreme	10 min
14:00	11	extreme	10 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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Florida

Throughout the year, UV Index levels vary significantly, with the highest readings occurring from February to October. During this period, the UV Index remains predominantly in the extreme category, peaking at 14 in May and remaining consistently high at 13 from June to September. The months at highest risk for UV exposure are February to October, where the burn time is reduced to just 10 minutes. January, November, and December see a slight decrease in risk, with UV Index levels categorized as very high and a longer burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take extra precautions during these peak months by wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen frequently, and seeking shade during peak hours to minimize skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Florida, Puerto Rico

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Florida. 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 Florida, 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 Florida UV Index with Other Puerto Rico Cities

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

Florida's solar exposure compared to other cities in Puerto Rico. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Caguas UVI	9	11	13	13	14	13	12	13	13	12	9	8
Carolina UVI	9	11	13	13	14	13	12	13	13	12	9	8
San Juan UVI	9	11	13	13	14	13	12	13	13	12	9	8
Florida	9	11	13	13	14	13	13	13	13	12	9	8
Bayamon UVI	9	11	13	13	14	13	13	13	13	12	9	8
Ponce UVI	9	11	13	14	14	13	13	13	14	12	10	9