Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Mercedes, Costa Rica, being aware of the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels can help you prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage, making it crucial for anyone enjoying the sun-drenched days in this vibrant region. With a tropical climate characterized by high UV exposure, particularly during the midday hours when the index peaks at a staggering 14, residents and visitors must take precautions to shield themselves from harmful rays. Stay informed about the UV Index to ensure your time under the Costa Rican sun is both enjoyable and safe!
At dawn, the UV Index begins at a gentle 2 at 7:00 AM, gradually climbing to a peak of 14 by 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM. This midday intensity signals a crucial time for sun safety, as the index emphasizes the need for protection against harmful rays. As the afternoon progresses, the UV levels decrease, dropping to 5 by 3:00 PM and falling further to 1 by 5:00 PM. By 6:00 PM, the index gracefully settles at 0, marking the end of a sun-soaked day. Stay mindful of these UV changes to enjoy the sun safely!
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 | 12 | 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 |
The UV Index experiences extremely high levels throughout most of the year, peaking at 15 from March to May. Residents and visitors should take extra caution during these high-risk months, particularly from January through April when the UV Index remains consistently above 12. Even in the summer months of June to September, the UV Index remains at 14, indicating a persistent risk for skin damage. It is advisable to protect your skin by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade whenever possible, especially during peak sun hours. Remember that even on cloudy days, UV rays can still pose a risk, so stay vigilant 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 |
Mercedes | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 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 |