Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Catriel, Argentina is essential for protecting your skin and maintaining overall health. The UV Index measures the sun’s ultraviolet radiation, with high levels increasing the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. In Catriel’s semi-arid BSk climate, where sunny days are frequent, it’s crucial to be mindful of UV exposure, especially during peak hours when the index reaches significant levels (up to 4 from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM). By staying informed about the UV levels, residents and visitors alike can take proactive steps to enjoy the beautiful sunshine safely while preventing harmful effects linked to overexposure.
The UV Index today shows a gradual ascent starting from 0 in the early hours, with the sun's intensity beginning to rise around 9:00 AM, reaching a level of 1. As midday approaches, the UV Index peaks at 4 between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM, indicating a moderate risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Following this peak, the index gracefully descends, dropping back to 1 by 5:00 PM, and finally receding to 0 as evening settles in. It’s a day that calls for caution during those sun-drenched hours—remember to wear sunscreen if you're out and about!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 11:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index shows significant seasonal changes, with the highest levels recorded in January and December at an extreme index of 14, where the burn time is just 10 minutes. February and November also remain high at an extreme index of 13. The transition to lower UV levels begins in March with a very high index of 10, but exposure remains risky, especially as summer months approach. The months of April and September shift to high and moderate levels respectively, while May, June, and July offer moderate indices around 3 to 4. Visitors and residents should take extra precautions during the high-risk months of January, February, November, and December by minimizing sun exposure, wearing protective clothing, and using sunscreen, as they are at increased risk of harmful UV effects. Even in moderate months, it’s advisable to be mindful of sun safety practices to protect against overexposure.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Catriel | 14 | 13 | 10 | 6 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 10 | 13 | 14 |
| 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 |