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UV Index in Zapotal, Costa Rica

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Zapotal, Costa Rica, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With the region’s warm climate, understanding UV levels can help you prevent sunburn and reduce the long-term risks of skin damage. During peak hours, the UV Index can soar as high as 13, indicating extreme exposure risks between 10 AM and 2 PM. With this knowledge, residents and visitors alike can make informed choices about sun safety, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience under the Costa Rican sun.

Hourly UV Index in Zapotal

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!

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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:002low45 min
08:005moderate30 min
09:008very high15 min
10:0011extreme10 min
11:0013extreme10 min
12:0013extreme10 min
13:0012extreme10 min
14:008very high15 min
15:005moderate30 min
16:002low45 min
17:001low45 min
18:000low45 min
19:000low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Zapotal

Throughout the year, the UV Index displays seasonal variations that reflect increased sun exposure, particularly from January to May, where it consistently remains at extreme levels (11-14) with a burn time of just 10 minutes. This trend indicates that March, April, and May are the highest-risk months, urging visitors and residents to take extra precautions during these months. While June to October maintains an extreme UV Index, it slightly decreases to 13. As winter approaches, November sees a drop to 11, followed by December's very high level of 10. Therefore, it is crucial for everyone to practice sun safety measures—such as seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen—especially from January to May to mitigate the risk of harmful UV exposure.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Zapotal, Costa Rica

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Zapotal. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec111314141413131313131110
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Zapotal, 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 Zapotal UV Index with Other Costa Rica Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Zapotal 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.
Zapotal's solar exposure compared to other cities in Costa Rica. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Zapotal111314141413131313131110
Limon UVI121314151413131313141110
Liberia UVI111314141414141313131110
Alajuela UVI121315151414141313141210
San Jose UVI121415161414141414151211
Paraiso UVI131416161515151414151211