Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors of Sierra Colorada, Argentina, where the climate falls under the BSk category, presenting unique sunlight exposure challenges. Awareness of UV levels can help you take proactive measures against sunburn and promote overall skin health, particularly during peak hours when the index rises, typically around midday. Despite the relatively lower UV readings in the early morning and late afternoon, the sun's intensity can still pose risks—making it crucial to check the UV Index regularly and stay informed about local conditions to enjoy the sun safely and protect your skin all year round.
As the sun climbs in the sky, the UV Index begins its ascent, rising subtly from 0 at 07:00 and 08:00 to a modest 1 from 09:00 to 11:00. The real heat kicks in at 12:00, peaking at 2 before reaching a midday high of 3 from 13:00 to 14:00. As the afternoon unfolds, the index gently dips back to 2 at 15:00, stabilizing before tapering off to 1 at 16:00 and winding down to 0 by 18:00 and 19:00. This gentle UVI fluctuation emphasizes the importance of being mindful of sun exposure during those peak hours!
| 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 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 12:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 13:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 15:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 16:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
During the year, UV exposure varies significantly, with January and December showing the highest UV Index values of 14 and falling into the extreme exposure category, necessitating careful sun protection within just 10 minutes. February and November also present high risks, with UV indices of 12 and 13, respectively. As we transition into spring, March reaches a very high exposure category at 10, with a burn time of 15 minutes. Risk decreases in April and May to high and moderate, allowing for longer safe exposure times of 25 and 30 minutes. The summer months of June, July, and August maintain a moderate index around 3-5, providing a more hospitable environment for outdoor activities. However, risks increase again in September and October, with UV indices rising to 7 and 9, indicating high and very high risks. For residents and visitors, it is crucial to be vigilant during the extreme and very high months, particularly from November to March, and to apply sun protection measures such as sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade when necessary, especially during peak sun hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sierra Colorada | 14 | 12 | 10 | 6 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 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 |