UV Index in Cacao, Puerto Rico

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Cacao, Puerto Rico, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. Understanding the UV levels throughout the day helps residents and visitors alike to take necessary precautions against harmful sun exposure. With a tropical climate characterized by higher UV risks—especially between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM when the index peaks at 14—it’s essential to stay informed about when to seek shade or apply sunscreen. By keeping a close eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the vibrant outdoors of Cacao while safeguarding your skin!

Hourly UV Index in Cacao

The UV Index throughout the day displays a dynamic rise and fall, peaking at 14 around 12:00 PM, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Starting with a gentle 1 at 07:00, it escalates quickly, climbing to a 9 by 10:00 AM. The index reaches its zenith at noon before gradually tapering down to 2 by 17:00, and finally settling at 0 by 19:00. This pattern highlights the importance of sun protection during the midday hours when UV radiation is at its most intense, urging everyone to be vigilant and stay safe!

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	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 Cacao

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 Cacao, Puerto Rico

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Cacao 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.

Cacao'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
Cacao	9	11	13	13	14	13	13	13	13	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