Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Santa Clara, Argentina, where exposure to harmful ultraviolet rays can significantly impact skin health. With the region's Cwa climate characterized by strong sun exposure, it's essential to be aware of daily UV levels to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. During peak hours, particularly between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM, the UV Index can soar to 7, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By staying informed about UV levels, you can take proactive steps to protect yourself and enjoy all that Santa Clara has to offer while keeping your skin safe.
The UV Index data for the day unfolds a dynamic story of solar intensity. Starting at a maximum of 0 at 07:00, the index gradually creeps up to 1 by 08:00 and remains at that level until 09:00. As the sun climbs higher, it peaks at a significant 7 during the noon hours of 13:00 and 14:00, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. The afternoon brings a slight decrease, with the index dropping to 5 by 15:00 and continuing to decline throughout the evening. By 19:00, it settles back to 0, signaling that the sun's strength has diminished. Overall, this hourly snapshot underscores the importance of sun protection during peak hours, especially between 11:00 and 14:00 when the UV Index is at its highest.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 11:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | 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 levels demonstrate notable seasonal variations, with high-risk months primarily occurring from September to April, where indices consistently fall into the extreme category, peaking in January at 16. During these months, the recommended burn time is as short as 10 minutes, highlighting the urgent need for sun protection. Conversely, in May to August, the indices range from high to very high, with burn times extending to 15-25 minutes. Given these findings, it is crucial for visitors and residents to adopt protective measures such as applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours, especially in the extreme risk months of January, February, March, April, September, October, November, and December to minimize the risk of skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buenos Aires UVI | 14 | 13 | 11 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 13 | 14 |
| Rosario UVI | 14 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 13 | 14 |
| Mendoza UVI | 15 | 14 | 12 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 9 | 12 | 14 | 15 |
| Cordoba UVI | 15 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 12 | 14 | 15 |
| San Miguel de Tucuman UVI | 15 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 10 | 13 | 15 | 15 |
| Santa Clara | 16 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 11 | 14 | 15 | 15 |