Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Guadalupe, Costa Rica, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful sun exposure. With a tropical climate that encourages outdoor activities, the UV levels can soar to a maximum of 14 around midday, putting you at risk for sunburn and long-term skin damage. By staying informed about UV levels, you can take the necessary precautions to safeguard your skin health, ensuring that your time under the sun remains enjoyable and safe. Whether you're exploring the vibrant landscapes or soaking up the sun, being UV-aware is key to maintaining your well-being in this beautiful region.
The UV Index peaks dramatically during the midday hours, illustrating the sun's intensity in compelling detail. Starting at a modest 2 by 07:00, it swiftly ascends as the day unfolds. By 08:00, it jumps to 5, and then reaches a significant 8 at 09:00. The sun is at its fiercest between 10:00 and 12:00, with the index soaring to 14, an indication to take extra precautions! As 13:00 rolls around, the UV level dips slightly to 12, only to further decrease to 9 by 14:00. Post-midday, the sun's strength wanes; it dramatically drops to 5 by 15:00 and decreases to 1 by 17:00, finally settling at 0 by 19:00. Such data highlights the importance of sun protection during the peak hours when the UV intensity is at its highest.
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 | 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, UV radiation levels remain notably high, with an extreme UV Index ranging from 11 to 16. The months of January to April exhibit the highest UV exposure, peaking in April at an index of 16. This trend remains consistent until October, when a slight decrease occurs, yet October still holds a significant index of 15. November and December show a slight reduction in UV levels, but caution is still advised as the exposure remains extreme. Visitors and residents should be particularly vigilant from January to October, during which time burn time is limited to just 10 minutes. Protective measures such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential, especially during these high-risk months to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage.
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 |
Guadalupe | 12 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 12 | 11 |
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 |