Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Orosi, Costa Rica, where the warm Cfb climate can lead to significant sun exposure throughout the day. Being aware of UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and protecting skin health, especially when the index peaks at a striking 15 between noon and 1 PM. With UV levels soaring to heights of 12 by mid-morning, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen is essential for enjoying the beautiful Costa Rican outdoors while safeguarding your skin from harmful rays. Stay informed and keep your skin safe by checking the UV Index daily!
The UV Index fluctuates dramatically throughout the day, starting low at 2 at 7:00 AM and rapidly rising as the sun ascends. By 10:00 AM, it peaks at a striking 12, signaling an intense sun exposure risk. As the clock ticks to 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, the index remains alarmingly elevated at 15, urging caution for outdoor activities. Around 1:00 PM, it dips slightly to 13, but the intensity quickly wanes in the afternoon. By 2:00 PM, the index falls to 9 and continues its downtrend, dropping to 5 at 3:00 PM, and finally settling at 0 after 6:00 PM. This data underscores the importance of protecting your skin during peak sun hours, particularly between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM.
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 | 15 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 15 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 9 | 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index remains extraordinarily high, with extreme exposure categories dominating from January to November. The months of March, April, and May mark the peak, with a UV Index reaching 16, indicating the highest risk for skin damage due to sun exposure. Visitors and residents should exercise caution, especially from January to May, where the risk of sunburn occurs within just 10 minutes of exposure. As a precaution, it’s essential to use broad-spectrum sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during midday hours. Even as we transition into the cooler months, attention to UV safety remains crucial, as November and December still present a notable risk with indices of 12 and 11, respectively. Staying informed and protected is key to enjoying outdoor activities safely year-round.
UV Risk Categories
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 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 |
Orosi | 13 | 14 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 12 | 11 |
Paraiso UVI | 13 | 14 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 12 | 11 |