UV Index in Guaranda, Ecuador

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Guaranda, Ecuador, awareness of the UV Index is essential for safeguarding your skin against harmful sun exposure. With the region's Aw climate, characterized by sunny days and high-altitude intensity, understanding UV levels can significantly reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. During peak hours, particularly between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, UV Index readings soar to 12, indicating extreme danger. Being informed about these levels allows residents and visitors alike to take the necessary precautions to enjoy the vibrant, outdoor beauty of Guaranda while keeping their skin healthy and protected.

Hourly UV Index in Guaranda

The UV Index starts off low at 1 around 07:00, gradually rising to a moderate 2 by 08:00. As the sun reaches its peak, the index sharply escalates, hitting 8 at 10:00 and peaking at a striking 12 between 12:00 and 13:00. This intense solar exposure signals a strong need for protection, especially with the index maintaining an elevated 11 at 11:00 before beginning a gradual decline. By 14:00, it drops to 9, then further down to 6 at 15:00, and continues to fall, reaching 1 by 17:00. As the evening approaches, the UV levels taper off to 0 by 19:00, indicating a complete cessation of harmful UV exposure. Stay savvy and prioritize sun safety during those peak 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.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	1	low	45 min
08:00	2	low	45 min
09:00	5	moderate	30 min
10:00	8	very high	15 min
11:00	11	extreme	10 min
12:00	12	extreme	10 min
13:00	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	9	very high	15 min
15:00	6	high	25 min
16:00	3	moderate	30 min
17:00	1	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Guaranda

Throughout the year, the UV Index remains consistently extreme, with values ranging from 12 to 17 from January to December. The months of February and March showcase the highest UV levels, peaking at 16 and 17, respectively, indicating potential for rapid skin damage with a burn time of just 10 minutes. As such, visitors and residents should exercise heightened caution between January and April when the UV Index is at its peak. From May onward, although the index slightly decreases, it remains notably high, emphasizing the importance of protective measures year-round. To mitigate risks, it is crucial to wear sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, and to seek shade whenever possible, especially during the sun's peak hours.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Guaranda, Ecuador

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Guaranda compares to other major locations across Ecuador. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Guaranda's solar exposure compared to other cities in Ecuador. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Guayaquil UVI	14	14	15	14	12	11	10	11	13	13	11	12
Machala UVI	14	14	15	14	12	10	10	11	13	13	12	12
Santo Domingo de los Colorados UVI	14	15	16	15	14	12	12	12	13	14	12	11
Guaranda	15	16	17	16	14	12	12	13	15	15	13	13
Cuenca UVI	16	17	18	18	16	13	14	14	17	16	15	15
Quito UVI	17	17	19	19	17	14	15	15	17	17	16	14