UV Index in Turrialba, Costa Rica

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Turrialba, Costa Rica, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. Understanding the levels of UV exposure can help residents and visitors take proactive measures during peak sun hours, especially given Turrialba's Cfb climate, which can lead to elevated UV risks. With the UV Index peaking at a striking 14 between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, it’s essential to stay informed and protect your skin while enjoying the beautiful tropical landscapes. Embrace the sun safely by checking the UV Index regularly!

Hourly UV Index in Turrialba

As the sun rises, so does the UV Index, peaking at 14 between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM—a time when sun protection is crucial. The day starts gently at 07:00 with a low index of 2, gradually climbing to a moderate 5 by 08:00. By 09:00, it hits 9, signaling the approach of midday's intense rays. The highest intensity follows, peaking at 12:00 PM, where the UV Index remains steady at 14. After the zenith of noon, the UV levels begin their decline; by 03:00 PM, it drops to 5 before plummeting in the evening. As the sun sets, the UV Index cools off significantly, reaching 0 by 19:00. This hourly data underscores the importance of sun safety, especially during peak hours when UV exposure is at its highest.

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	11	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 Turrialba

The UV Index experiences monthly variations, but consistently remains in the extreme exposure category from January through November, with relatively lower levels in December. The highest UV levels occur between March and May, peaking at an index of 15, indicating a critical burn time of just 10 minutes. Given these figures, the high-risk months are particularly from March to May, where heightened sun exposure can lead to severe skin damage in a short period. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during these months, such as wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade, especially during peak sun hours. Even in December, with a UV index of 10, caution is necessary as the burn time is still only 15 minutes.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Turrialba, Costa Rica

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Turrialba 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.

Turrialba'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 UVI	12	13	15	15	14	14	14	13	13	14	12	10
Turrialba	12	13	15	15	14	14	14	14	14	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