Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in San Miguel, Ecuador, a region characterized by its tropical climate and abundant sunshine. With UV levels peaking at an impressive 12 during midday hours, awareness of these levels is essential for sunburn prevention and maintaining long-term skin health. Whether you're enjoying outdoor activities or simply soaking in the beautiful surroundings, being informed about UV exposure risks can help safeguard your skin from harmful effects. Stay informed, stay protected, and enjoy the sun responsibly in San Miguel!
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!
| 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 |
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.
UV Risk Categories
| 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 |
| San Miguel | 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 |