UV Index in Ponce, Puerto Rico

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Ponce, Puerto Rico. As a tropical city, Ponce experiences intense sun exposure, making awareness of UV levels essential for sunburn prevention and overall skin health. With peak UV Index values soaring to 13 around noon, it's vital to know the risks and take protective measures. Whether you're enjoying the warm climate or attending outdoor events, being informed about the UV Index can help you safeguard against harmful rays and enjoy all that this vibrant city has to offer!

Hourly UV Index in Ponce

The UV Index today reflects a dynamic progression of sun intensity throughout the hours. Starting at a modest 1 at 07:00, it gradually climbs to 3 by 08:00. A steady ascent leads to a significant peak of 13 at both 12:00 and 13:00, marking the most critical hours for sun exposure. As the afternoon wanes, the index gently descends to 10 at 14:00, then to 7 at 15:00, before tapering off to 4 at 16:00. By 18:00, it drops back to 1, and the day concludes under the protective shroud of dusk with a 0 by 19:00. This data serves as a reminder to stay sun-safe during peak hours, particularly between 10:00 and 14:00 when the sun's rays are at their strongest.

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	13	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 Ponce

The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, with the highest readings occurring from February to October, where exposure levels reach an extreme category and burn times are dangerously short at 10 minutes. March through September are particularly high-risk months, peaking in April and May with a UV Index of 14. Residents and visitors should be extremely cautious during these months, ensuring proper sun protection such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses. In contrast, November and December are notable for their relatively lower UV levels classified as very high, albeit still requiring sun safety measures, with burn times lengthening to 15 minutes. It is advisable for everyone to monitor the UV Index regularly and adopt appropriate precautions year-round to minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Ponce, Puerto Rico

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Ponce 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.

Ponce'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
Bayamon UVI	9	11	13	13	14	13	13	13	13	12	9	8
Ponce	9	11	13	14	14	13	13	13	14	12	10	9