UV Index in Alajuela, Costa Rica

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Alajuela, Costa Rica, being aware of the UV Index is essential for both locals and visitors alike. Understanding UV levels is crucial not only for preventing painful sunburns but also for protecting long-term skin health. With its tropical climate, Alajuela experiences substantial UV exposure, peaking between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM with readings as high as 14. This places everyone at increased risk for skin damage if proper precautions aren’t taken. Stay informed about daily UV levels to enjoy the sun safely while exploring the beauty of Alajuela!

Hourly UV Index in Alajuela

At dawn, the UV Index begins at a gentle 2 at 7:00 AM, gradually climbing to a peak of 14 by 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM. This midday intensity signals a crucial time for sun safety, as the index emphasizes the need for protection against harmful rays. As the afternoon progresses, the UV levels decrease, dropping to 5 by 3:00 PM and falling further to 1 by 5:00 PM. By 6:00 PM, the index gracefully settles at 0, marking the end of a sun-soaked day. Stay mindful of these UV changes to enjoy the sun safely!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	2	low	45 min
08:00	5	moderate	30 min
09:00	9	very high	15 min
10:00	12	extreme	10 min
11:00	14	extreme	10 min
12:00	14	extreme	10 min
13:00	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	8	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Alajuela

Throughout the year, the UV Index reflects consistently high levels of ultraviolet radiation, particularly from January to October where the index remains in the extreme category, peaking at 15 in both March and April. This means that residents and visitors should be particularly vigilant during these high-risk months, as the burn time for unprotected skin is only 10 minutes across most of this period. As the year progresses, November and December experience slightly lower UV levels, but caution is still advised, especially as November has a UV Index of 12 (extreme) and burn time of 10 minutes, while December dips to 10 (very high) with a longer burn time of 15 minutes. It is essential for everyone to take protective measures, including wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing, regardless of the season, to minimize the risk of skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Alajuela, Costa Rica

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Alajuela. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Alajuela, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Alajuela UV Index with Other Costa Rica Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Alajuela compares to other major locations across Costa Rica. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Alajuela's solar exposure compared to other cities in Costa Rica. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Limon UVI	12	13	14	15	14	13	13	13	13	14	11	10
Liberia UVI	11	13	14	14	14	14	14	13	13	13	11	10
Alajuela	12	13	15	15	14	14	14	13	13	14	12	10
San Jose UVI	12	14	15	16	14	14	14	14	14	15	12	11
Paraiso UVI	13	14	16	16	15	15	15	14	14	15	12	11