Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Gustavia, Saint Barthélemy, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for sun safety and skin health. Understanding UV levels empowers residents and visitors alike to take necessary precautions, reducing the risk of painful sunburns and long-term skin damage. With a tropical climate that features intense sunlight, Gustavia experiences significant UV exposure, especially during midday hours when the index peaks at 13. By familiarizing yourself with local UV trends, you can enjoy the beautiful beaches and vibrant outdoor life while protecting your skin from harmful rays.
The UV Index showcases a dynamic increase throughout the day, peaking at 13 around 12:00 PM. Starting from a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, the index steadily climbs as the sun ascends, reaching 6 by 9:00 AM. The intensity becomes palpable by 11:00 AM with a sharp rise to 12, before hitting its zenith at 13 at noon, prompting caution for outdoor activities. As the afternoon unfolds, the levels begin to decline, dipping to 10 by 2:00 PM and gradually falling to 0 by 7:00 PM, signaling safer conditions for evening strolls. It’s essential to stay protected during the midday hours when the sun's rays are most intense!
| 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 | 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, seasonal changes in the UV Index highlight significant variations in sun exposure risk. From February to October, the UV Index consistently peaks at 13, categorizing these months as experiencing extreme exposure levels; notably, the burn time during this period is only 10 minutes. Consequently, March to October are considered high-risk months for sunburn and skin damage. By contrast, January, November, and December exhibit a lower UV Index of 9, classified as very high, with slightly longer burn times of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during the high-risk months, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours to minimize the risk of skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gustavia | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 9 |