Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Cuba is crucial for anyone looking to enjoy the beautiful, sun-soaked days this vibrant country has to offer. Awareness of UV levels plays a vital role in preventing sunburn and maintaining skin health, as high exposure can lead to long-term damage. With Cuba's climate featuring intense sunlight and peaks in UV radiation—reaching a maximum of 12 around midday—residents and visitors alike must take precautions to protect their skin from the harmful effects of UV rays. Stay informed and safe while experiencing all that Cuba has to offer under the sun!
The UV Index throughout the day presents a fascinating pattern as the sun ascends. At 07:00, the index starts at a gentle 1, indicating minimal risk. However, by 09:00, it climbs to 4, marking the arrival of noticeable sunlight. The real intensity hits its peak at 12:00, soaring to an impressive 11—a cautionary moment for those outdoors. As we move through the afternoon, the index remains elevated, reaching 12 at 13:00 before gradually descending, settling back to 7 by 16:00. The evening sees a return to safer levels with 2 at 18:00 and finally back to 1 as the day wanes at 19:00. This dynamic shift underscores the importance of sun protection during peak hours, particularly from 10:00 to 14:00.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
As we move through the year, seasonal UV changes present significant variations in sun exposure risk. High-risk months are notably from March to September, where the UV Index reaches extreme levels, peaking at 13 in June and July. During these months, the recommended burn time decreases to just 10 minutes, indicating a critical need for protective measures. Conversely, January, February, and December present lower UV Index levels, categorized as moderate to high, allowing for longer exposure times. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to implement sun safety practices during peak months—such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade—to minimize the risk of skin damage. As a rule of thumb, keep an eye on the daily UV Index and adjust your outdoor activities accordingly.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago UVI | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| Brooklyn UVI | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| New York City UVI | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| Los Angeles UVI | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |
| Cuba | 5 | 7 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 4 |