Last updated: July 2, 2025
In San Francisco, Bolivia, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding the daily UV levels helps you prevent sunburn and reduces the risk of long-term skin damage. With the city's Cwb climate, residents and visitors should be particularly mindful of the elevated UV exposure between 10 AM and 2 PM, when the index can reach as high as 9, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Stay informed and take necessary precautions to enjoy the beautiful Bolivian sun while keeping your skin safe!
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off low, peaking at just 1 by 8 AM. However, as the day progresses, intensity increases, reaching a notable 6 by 10 AM and soaring to its maximum of 9 from noon to 1 PM. This peak signifies a time when sun safety becomes essential, urging you to seek shade and apply sunscreen. The afternoon sees a gradual decline with the index dropping to 5 by 3 PM and lower values as the sun begins its descent. By ~4 PM, the index falls to 2, and soon after, it returns to 1 by 5 PM, fading to 0 in the evening. Overall, it’s wise to take precautions during the midday hours when the UV levels are at their highest!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index shows significant seasonal variations, with extreme levels persisting from January to May, and a return to extreme conditions from September to December. The high-risk months include November and December, both peaking at a UV Index of 18, which necessitates caution for all outdoor activities. While summer months, particularly June and July, see a slight dip with a very high index of 8 and 9 respectively, the burn time remains critical — only 15 minutes for direct sunlight. Visitors and residents are advised to take necessary precautions, such as wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade, especially during periods of high UV exposure. Always be aware of the UV Index to stay safe under the sun!
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Santa Cruz de la Sierra UVI | 15 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 15 | 16 | 16 |
| San Francisco | 17 | 17 | 16 | 14 | 11 | 8 | 9 | 12 | 14 | 17 | 18 | 18 |
| Sucre UVI | 17 | 17 | 16 | 14 | 11 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 15 | 17 | 17 | 18 |
| Sacaba UVI | 17 | 18 | 17 | 15 | 12 | 10 | 10 | 13 | 15 | 17 | 18 | 19 |
| Cochabamba UVI | 18 | 18 | 17 | 15 | 12 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 16 | 18 | 18 | 19 |
| Oruro UVI | 19 | 19 | 17 | 16 | 13 | 10 | 11 | 14 | 16 | 19 | 19 | 19 |