Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Oruro, Bolivia, where the unique BSk climate results in varying ultraviolet radiation levels throughout the day. As UV levels can soar to a dangerous 11 between 12 PM and 1 PM, being aware of these fluctuations is essential for sunburn prevention and maintaining overall skin health. With a high altitude and clear skies typical of Oruro's environment, the risk of UV exposure increases significantly, making it vital to stay informed and take protective measures during peak hours.
The UV Index reveals a dynamic pattern throughout the day, starting at a low 1 in the early morning hours of 07:00 and 08:00. As the sun rises, the index climbs steadily, reaching 3 by 09:00. The midday sun peaks aggressively at 11, with the UV Index hitting its maximum of 11 from 12:00 to 13:00, signaling a high risk for skin damage without protection. Following this peak, values gradually decline, dropping to 9 at 14:00, and tapering down to 6 by 15:00. As the evening approaches, the UV Index falls back to 3 by 16:00 and finally descends to a 1 by 17:00 and 18:00, before sinking to 0 at 19:00, marking the end of the day's UV exposure. It's a reminder to stay vigilant under the sun, especially during those peak hours!
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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 11 | 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 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits extreme levels from January to April and again in July through November, highlighting significant risk for skin damage. Notably, January, February, and October maintain a consistently high UV index of 19, indicating a severe threat in these months with a burn time of just 10 minutes. The transition into June and July sees the UV Index slightly decrease to 10-11, yet still falls within the very high to extreme categories, where care should still be taken. For visitors and residents, it is crucial to prioritize sun safety measures, particularly during the high-risk months of January through April and July through November. Always consider wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to mitigate the risks associated with prolonged sun exposure.
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 |
Oruro | 19 | 19 | 17 | 16 | 13 | 10 | 11 | 14 | 16 | 19 | 19 | 19 |