Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Buena Vista, Bolivia, where the climate's Aw classification results in diverse exposure to sunlight throughout the day. Being aware of UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburn and protecting skin health, but also enables individuals to enjoy outdoor activities safely. During peak hours, particularly from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, the UV Index can rise to 8, indicating a high risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. As Buena Vista experiences a warm climate, knowledge of the UV Index empowers the community to take proactive measures against potential skin damage from increasing UV rays.
At dawn, the UV Index remains low, peaking at 1 by 08:00. As the sun rises higher, a notable increase occurs, reaching 3 at 09:00 and escalating dramatically to a maximum of 8 from 12:00 to 13:00. This midday surge indicates a higher risk for sun exposure, making it essential to take precautions such as wearing sunscreen and protective clothing. The intensity then gradually declines, dropping to 4 by 15:00, and continuing its descent to 0 by 19:00, marking the end of the sun’s peak influence for the day. Stay mindful of these hourly fluctuations to enjoy the sun safely!
| 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 6 | 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 |
The UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal variation, with the highest levels occurring during the winter and early spring months. From January to April, the UV Index remains at an extreme level of 15-14, indicating a dangerously high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, where burn time is only 10 minutes. This trend continues into September, with a spike back to 13, and peaks again in October and November at 16, necessitating caution during these months as well. The summer months of May to August experience a slightly lower UV Index (ranging from 8 to 10), categorized as very high, allowing for a burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take proactive sun safety measures, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during the high-risk months of January, February, March, April, September, October, November, and December.
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 |
| Buena Vista | 15 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 13 | 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 UVI | 19 | 19 | 17 | 16 | 13 | 10 | 11 | 14 | 16 | 19 | 19 | 19 |