Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Santa Elena, Bolivia, where the sun's rays can be particularly intense due to its tropical highland climate (Cwb). With UV levels peaking around midday—reaching a high of 10 at noon—awareness of these levels is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. As the sun climbs higher, the risk of skin damage increases significantly, making it vital to monitor the UV Index regularly. Whether you're exploring the vibrant landscapes or enjoying outdoor activities, being informed about UV exposure risks can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in this beautiful region.
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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | 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 data indicates that seasonal variations in ultraviolet radiation intensity remain significant throughout the year. High-risk months, characterized by an extreme exposure category and a UV Index peaking at 18, are prevalent from January to April and again in November and December. March sees a slightly lower index at 16, but still poses a considerable risk. For those spending time outdoors, it's crucial to take protective measures, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during the extreme months when burn times can be as short as 10 minutes. Later in the summer, while the UV Index drops slightly, June and July still present very high levels with a burn time of 15 minutes. As such, both visitors and residents should remain vigilant year-round to minimize UV exposure and potential skin damage.
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 |
| Sucre UVI | 17 | 17 | 16 | 14 | 11 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 15 | 17 | 17 | 18 |
| Santa Elena | 18 | 17 | 16 | 14 | 11 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 15 | 17 | 18 | 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 |