Last updated: May 3, 2025
In the picturesque town of Sorata, Bolivia, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With its high-altitude setting and a climate that fluctuates between cool and mild, residents and visitors alike need to be mindful of peak UV levels, which can soar to a maximum of 12 around midday. This awareness is vital for preventing sunburn and minimizing long-term skin damage, making it essential to check the UV predictions before heading outdoors. Whether you're enjoying outdoor adventures or simply soaking in the stunning views, staying informed about UV exposure can help you enjoy Sorata's beauty safely.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index experiences a dramatic rise, peaking between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM. Starting at a modest 1 at 07:00, the intensity escalates to a striking 12 by noon, when the sun's rays are at their strongest. This level denotes a significant risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure, advising caution for outdoor enthusiasts. As the afternoon sun begins to wane, the index gradually decreases, dropping to 3 by 4:00 PM and finally settling back at 1 by 6:00 PM. It's an important reminder to always stay sun-safe during those crucial midday hours!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 1 | 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 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index exhibits notable seasonal changes, with peak levels reaching as high as 19 during the winter months of February, November, and December, indicating extreme exposure risk. The high-risk months for sunburn are particularly concentrated from January to April, where the UV Index remains consistently extreme at 18-19, suggesting a burn time of only 10 minutes. While May and June show a slight moderation with a UV Index of 13 and 10 respectively, the risk remains substantial, especially in June with a burn time extending to 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should adopt strict sun safety measures throughout the year, particularly from January to April and again in November and December, emphasizing the need for effective sun protection such as sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize exposure during peak UV hours.
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 |
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 |
Sorata | 18 | 19 | 18 | 16 | 13 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 16 | 17 | 19 | 19 |
Oruro UVI | 19 | 19 | 17 | 16 | 13 | 10 | 11 | 14 | 16 | 19 | 19 | 19 |