UV Index in Los Chiles, Costa Rica

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Los Chiles, Costa Rica, understanding the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin from the sun's harmful rays. With peak UV levels reaching a staggering 14 around midday, awareness of these fluctuations can significantly reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. The region's humid tropical climate, characterized by plenty of sunshine throughout the year, means that residents and visitors alike should be vigilant about their sun exposure. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors while ensuring your skin stays healthy and safe.

Hourly UV Index in Los Chiles

The UV Index data for today reveals a dynamic pattern of solar intensity. Starting off at a modest 2 at 07:00, the index climbs steadily, reaching a peak of 14 by 11:00 and 12:00, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure during these hours. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to decline, dipping to 8 by 14:00 and falling to 5 by 15:00. By evening, the UV Index drops dramatically to 1 at 17:00, and finally sinks to 0 after 18:00, making the evening hours safe for outdoor activities. Remember to stay protected during those peak hours!

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	8	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 Los Chiles

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Los Chiles, Costa Rica

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Los Chiles. 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 Los Chiles, 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 Los Chiles UV Index with Other Costa Rica Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Los Chiles 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.

Los Chiles'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
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