Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Rio Grande, Puerto Rico, where the tropical climate can lead to significant sun exposure risks. Knowing the daily UV levels empowers you to take proactive measures against sunburn and long-term skin damage, promoting better skin health for everyone. With peak UV Index values reaching as high as 13 around noon, it's essential to be educated about when to seek shade and apply sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful effects. In this vibrant coastal town, where the sun shines brightly, staying informed about the UV Index is key to enjoying the outdoors safely.
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 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.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Rio Grande | 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 |