Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Cruz Bay, Virgin Islands, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin against harmful ultraviolet rays. High UV levels, particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM, can lead to sunburn and long-term skin health issues, making it essential to stay informed. With its tropical climate, Cruz Bay experiences significant sun exposure, and the UV Index regularly peaks at levels that call for proactive sun safety measures. Stay vigilant, enjoy the sun, but do so wisely to preserve your skin and health during your time in this beautiful paradise!
The UV Index throughout the day reveals striking fluctuations, peaking at a blistering 13 at noon. Starting under gentle conditions at 07:00 with a maximum of 1, the UV intensity gradually climbs, hitting 3 by 08:00. As the sun ascends, it reaches 6 at 09:00 and skyrockets to 11 by 11:00, warning sun seekers to take precautions. The pinnacle occurs at 12:00, where a relentless 13 signals the need for protective measures. The index then begins a steady decline, dipping to 12 by 13:00, before descending further to 10 at 14:00, and tapering off to 4 by 16:00. As twilight approaches, the UV levels fall swiftly, reaching a safe 0 by 19:00, reminding us of the sun's fleeting power and the importance of sun safety during those peak hours.
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 | 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 index values exhibit notable variability, with high-risk months predominantly occurring from February to October, where the index reaches extremes ranging from 11 to 14. The most intense periods are seen in September with a UV index of 14, alongside March, April, May, June, July, and August, all maintaining high levels of 13. During these months, burn times are reduced to just 10 minutes, emphasizing the need for vigilance in sun protection. Conversely, January, November, and December see a slight decline in risk, with UV indexes of 9 and 8, allowing for burn times of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to utilize appropriate sun protection strategies, including the use of sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak UV hours to mitigate risks throughout the year.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Charlotte Amalie UVI | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 8 |
Cruz Bay | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 8 |
Saint Croix UVI | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 9 |