UV Index in Rio Grande, Puerto Rico

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Rio Grande, Puerto Rico, where the tropical climate brings abundant sunshine and elevated UV exposure risks. As the UV levels soar, particularly during peak hours—reaching a staggering UV Index of 13 around noon—awareness becomes essential in preventing sunburn and protecting your skin health. With typical exposure risks throughout the day, being informed allows you to enjoy the vibrant outdoor lifestyle of Rio Grande while safeguarding your skin against harmful effects. Embrace the sunshine with care, and let the UV Index guide your sun safety practices!

Hourly UV Index in Rio Grande

As the sun climbs higher, the UV Index reaches its peak intensity around 12:00 PM, soaring to a striking 13—a clear signal for outdoor enthusiasts to take precautions. The morning hours start gently, with a low of 1 at 07:00 AM, gradually escalating to 6 by 09:00 AM and hitting 9 at 10:00 AM. By 11:00 AM, the sun begins to assert itself with a 12. However, as the afternoon progresses, the UV intensity starts to wane, dropping to 10 at 2:00 PM, and tapering off to a mere 2 by 5:00 PM. As daylight diminishes, the UV Index dwindles to 0 by 7:00 PM, inviting a much-needed respite from the sun’s relentless rays. Always be vigilant and protect your skin during those peak hours!

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	6	high	25 min
10:00	9	very high	15 min
11:00	12	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 Rio Grande

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 Rio Grande, Puerto Rico

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Rio Grande 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.

Rio Grande'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
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