Last updated: August 1, 2025
In San Pedro, Bolivia, understanding the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn, especially given the region's high-altitude climate that allows for intense sun exposure. With UV levels peaking in the afternoon, notably reaching 10 at noon, residents and visitors alike must stay vigilant about the risks associated with prolonged sun exposure. By regularly checking the UV Index, individuals can take proactive steps to protect their skin and enjoy the beautiful, sun-drenched days that characterize this vibrant community. Whether planning outdoor activities or simply soaking in the stunning scenery, awareness of UV levels is essential for safe sun enjoyment in San Pedro.
The UV Index reveals a dynamic day of sun exposure, starting off gently with a low of 1 at 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM. As the sun climbs higher, the index begins to rise sharply, peaking at 10 by noon, signaling ideal conditions for outdoor activities—though caution is advised. The intensity remains high as it slightly dips to 9 at 1:00 PM and 7 at 2:00 PM, before tapering off in the afternoon. By 4:00 PM, the index drops to 2, and the sun’s intensity continues to fade, reaching 0 by 6:00 PM. This hourly trend underscores the importance of sun safety during peak hours, particularly from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, when protection is most crucial.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal fluctuations, with extreme risk levels persisting from January through May and again from August to November. In these months, the UV Index remains high, peaking at 18 in December, which indicates a burn time of only 10 minutes for unprotected skin. Even during the summer months of June and July, while the UV Index drops slightly to a very high level (8 to 10) allowing for 15 minutes of exposure before burning, caution is still advised. Visitors and residents should take preventive measures during all months, especially in high-risk periods, by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours. Staying informed and vigilant against UV exposure is essential for skin health throughout the year.
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 Pedro | 17 | 17 | 16 | 14 | 11 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 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 |