Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Potosi, Bolivia, as it provides essential insights into daily sun exposure levels. With a high-altitude climate characterized by the BSk zone, Potosi experiences significant UV radiation, especially during peak hours from 10 AM to 2 PM, when the UV Index may soar to 11—indicating a severe risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Being aware of UV levels not only aids in sunburn prevention but also plays a vital role in maintaining long-term skin health. Stay informed and protect yourself against the sun's powerful rays as you navigate Potosi's stunning landscapes!
The UV Index today started off gently at 1 around 07:00, perfect for early risers. As the sun climbed higher, the intensity slowly increased—2 at 08:00, escalating to 4 by 09:00. The real peak came between 11:00 and 13:00, when the value reached a scorching 11, indicating very high potential for skin damage without protection. As the afternoon wore on, the index dropped to 9 at 14:00, and continued to decline, settling back to 5 by 15:00. The evening brought relief, with the UV Index falling to 2 by 16:00 and finally tapering off to 0 by 19:00. Remember to keep that sunscreen handy during the peak hours!
| 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 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 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 demonstrates significant seasonal variations, with the highest values typically occurring in the winter and fall months. From November to January, the UV Index remains alarmingly high, ranging from 18 to 20 and categorized as extreme, which means a burn time of just 10 minutes. February to April also sees elevated levels, maintaining an extreme exposure category, while May slightly decreases to 12 but still remains in the extreme range with a burn time of 10 minutes. As summer arrives in June and July, the UV Index drops to 9 and 10 respectively, categorized as very high, allowing for a marginally longer burn time of 15 minutes. However, it escalates again in August and returns to extreme levels during September and October, demanding attention as well. Given these high-risk months, it is advisable for visitors and residents alike to take protective measures year-round, particularly during November, December, January, and February, where exposure can be most harmful. Remember to wear sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, and seek shade whenever possible to mitigate skin damage from these dangerous UV levels.
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 |
| Potosi | 18 | 18 | 17 | 15 | 12 | 9 | 10 | 13 | 16 | 18 | 19 | 20 |
| Oruro UVI | 19 | 19 | 17 | 16 | 13 | 10 | 11 | 14 | 16 | 19 | 19 | 19 |