UV Index in Vieques, Puerto Rico

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Vieques, Puerto Rico is essential for anyone looking to enjoy the island's beautiful beaches while protecting their skin. With levels reaching as high as 13 around midday, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for preventing sunburn and maintaining skin health. Vieques boasts a tropical climate that can significantly increase UV exposure risks, especially between the hours of 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM when the sun is strongest. By staying informed about UV levels, you can enjoy the sun safely and relish the vibrant beauty of this Caribbean paradise.

Hourly UV Index in Vieques

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.

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	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Vieques

Throughout the year, UV exposure varies significantly, with the highest risk months occurring from February to September, where the UV Index often reaches extreme levels of 11 to 14. March, April, May, and August consistently show an Index of 13, while September peaks at 14, necessitating vigilant sun protection. During these high-risk months, the burn time is as short as 10 minutes, emphasizing the importance of wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade. As the seasons transition, January, November, and December see a decrease in UV levels, but caution should still be practiced during the very high exposure periods, especially before noon. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to remain vigilant and take appropriate sun safety measures to protect their skin year-round.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Vieques, Puerto Rico

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Vieques 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.

Vieques'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
Vieques	9	11	13	13	13	13	12	13	14	12	9	8
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
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