Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Potosi, Bolivia, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels helps prevent sunburn and reduces the risk of long-term skin damage. With Potosi's unique BSk climate, characterized by high altitude and intense sunlight, residents and visitors alike face significant UV exposure, especially during midday hours when the index peaks at an alarming 9. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the stunning landscapes of Potosi while taking the necessary precautions for your skin's health.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off low at a comfortable 1 from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it jumps to 3, signaling a gradual increase in sun exposure. The intensity peaks around 12:00 PM, reaching an impressive 9, making midday the most critical time for sun safety. As the afternoon unfolds, the index slowly declines; it drops to 7 by 2:00 PM, then further decreases to 4 at 3:00 PM. The later hours offer a gentle reprieve, with values falling to 1 by 5:00 PM and ultimately 0 by 6:00 PM. Remember, during those peak hours, it’s essential to protect your skin!
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | 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 |