Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in La Cruz, Costa Rica, where the sun's rays can be particularly intense. With UV levels often reaching as high as 14 during peak hours, being aware of these fluctuations is essential for preventing sunburns and protecting skin health. In this warm tropical climate, exposure to UV radiation increases risk, making it vital to plan outdoor activities wisely. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful beaches and vibrant landscapes of La Cruz while safeguarding your skin from potential harm.
The UV Index throughout the day exhibits a pronounced peak around midday. Starting at a modest 2 at 07:00, it escalates rapidly, reaching a significant 14 by 11:00 and 12:00, marking the most intense exposure period. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to decline, dropping to 9 by 14:00 and further to 5 by 15:00. The evening brings a welcome relief, with values plummeting to 1 by 17:00 and finally settling to 0 post 18:00. This data emphasizes the importance of sun protection during peak hours, particularly from 10:00 to 14:00, when the UV radiation is most hazardous. Stay safe, stay shaded! ☀️
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 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 12 | 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 |
The UV Index exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern, with extreme exposure categories persisting from January through August, showcasing values as high as 15 in April. The months of March to August are particularly high-risk, with consistent values around 14, indicating a burn time of only 10 minutes during peak hours. As the year progresses, a slight decline occurs, with November and December experiencing values of 11 and 10, respectively, but still warranting caution due to very high exposure levels. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take proactive measures during these months by wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours to reduce the risk of skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
La Cruz | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 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 |