Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Florida and Puerto Rico, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet radiation. Understanding UV levels helps you take proactive measures against sunburn and long-term skin damage, especially in these sun-soaked locales where the climate remains warm and inviting year-round. With peak UV Index values soaring to 13 around midday, residents and visitors alike must recognize the increased risk of sun exposure during these hours. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors while prioritizing your skin health.
The UV Index begins at a mild level of 1 at 07:00, but as the sun climbs higher, it swiftly escalates. By 10:00, it peaks at a critical 9, reaching a maximum of 13 at 12:00, indicating that protective measures are essential. After noon, the index gradually declines, tapering to 7 by 15:00, before dipping to a 2 by 17:00, and finally settling at 0 by 19:00 as the sun sets. This data highlights the importance of sun safety during the hours when UV exposure is at its highest, particularly around midday.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 11 | 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 |
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.
UV Risk Categories
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 |