Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Tarija, Bolivia, especially given the region's Cwb climate, which combines mild temperatures with significant sunlight exposure. With UV levels peaking at a high 8 around midday, awareness of these indices can help you prevent sunburn and protect your skin health. Proper knowledge of UV risks empowers individuals to take proactive measures, ensuring enjoyable outdoor experiences while safeguarding against harmful effects. Whether you’re hiking in the beautiful Andes or simply enjoying the vibrant local culture, being informed about UV levels is an essential part of staying safe under the Tarija sun.
At sunrise, the UV Index begins at a gentle 1 at 07:00, rising gradually as the sun climbs higher. By 09:00, it reaches 3, indicating a moderate level of UV radiation. The heat of the day peaks at 12:00 with a high of 8, suggesting it’s time to seek shade or apply sunscreen. As the afternoon progresses, the index slightly drops to 7 at 13:00 and continues to decline, settling at 3 by 15:00. As the sun starts to set, the risk diminishing to 1 at 17:00 and finally dropping to 0 by 18:00, signaling a safer time for outdoor activities as the day winds down. Be mindful of the midday sun 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
14:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
15:00 | 3 | 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 shows significant seasonal variation with extreme levels persisting from January to April, peaking in December at 18. High-risk months are predominantly from January through April and again in November and December, where the burn time is a mere 10 minutes. Even in the very high category (May to July), a burn time of 15 minutes necessitates caution. Visitors and residents should take precautions throughout the year, especially during these high-risk months, by applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to minimize UV exposure and potential skin damage.
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 |
Tarija | 17 | 17 | 16 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 14 | 16 | 17 | 18 |
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 |