Last updated: July 2, 2025
In San Cristobal, Argentina, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. Understanding UV levels helps residents and visitors make safe choices when enjoying the outdoors, particularly in a region characterized by a Cfa climate which brings warm summers and moderate sunshine. During peak hours, particularly between 12 PM and 2 PM, the UV Index can reach levels as high as 5, posing significant risks to those unprepared for direct sun exposure. By monitoring UV levels, you can protect yourself and your loved ones while basking in the vibrant beauty of San Cristobal.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a dynamic pattern in sunlight intensity. Starting from a maximum of 0 at 7 AM, the day gradually warms up, hitting a slight rise to 1 by 8 AM. As the sun climbs higher, the index ascends to 2 at 10 AM and peaks at 5 from 1 PM to 2 PM, indicating a period of heightened sun exposure. After this zenith, the UV levels start to decline, dropping back to 3 at 3 PM, then down to 1 by the late afternoon and settling at 0 once more by 7 PM. With such variances, it’s crucial to stay protected during the peak hours of noon to 2 PM to enjoy the sun safely!
| 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 5 | 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 experiences significant seasonal fluctuations, peaking during the winter and late fall months. January, February, October, November, and December all reflect an extreme exposure category with UV Index values reaching 14 to 15 and a minimal burn time of just 10 minutes. March adds to this high-risk period with an index of 12. The spring month of April drops slightly to a very high exposure category with an index of 9 and a burn time of 15 minutes, while May sees a reduction to high (index of 6) and a longer burn time of 25 minutes. In the summer, the UV risk lowers somewhat, with June and July categorized as moderate (UV Index 4-5 and burn times of 30 minutes), but returns to high in August with an index of 7. September bounces back to very high at 9. It's essential for both visitors and residents to be aware that the highest risk months for UV exposure are from January to March and October to December. Protection against UV radiation, including using broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours, is highly recommended during these times to reduce 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 Cristobal | 14 | 14 | 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 |