Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Los Chiles, Costa Rica, where the tropical climate presents unique challenges regarding sun exposure. With UV levels peaking at a hazardous 13 during midday hours, being informed about these levels can help prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. The sun's intensity in this Aw climate zone means that even short exposures can be risky without proper protection. Stay aware of the UV Index to enjoy the beautiful outdoors safely while safeguarding your skin health.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dynamic and intense solar experience. Starting at 7:00 AM, it begins modestly at 2, gradually escalating to 5 by 8:00 AM. The real surge occurs by 9:00 AM, peaking at a striking 11 by 10:00 AM, and reaching its maximum of 13 during both 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM. As the afternoon unfolds, the index starts to decline, dipping to 12 at 1:00 PM and tapering off to 8 by 2:00 PM. By mid-afternoon, the UV intensity diminishes further, falling to 5 at 3:00 PM, before settling at a gentle 2 by 4:00 PM. The evening brings a welcome respite, with the UV Index reducing to 1 at 5:00 PM and finally dropping to zero by 7:00 PM, marking the end of a day characterized by significant exposure potential. Stay protected during those peak UV hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 10:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 11:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 13 | 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 |
The UV Index varies throughout the year, with the highest readings occurring from March to July, where it consistently reaches levels of 14, categorized as extreme. This means that during these months, the burn time is as short as 10 minutes, posing a significant risk to unprotected skin. February also shows a high UV Index of 12, indicating that February to August are the high-risk months for sun exposure. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take necessary precautions during these months, including wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade whenever possible. As we move into November and December, the UV Index gradually decreases, with December still presenting a very high risk at an index of 10, so vigilance is still encouraged even during winter months.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Los Chiles | 11 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 10 |
| 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 UVI | 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 |