Last updated: May 3, 2025
In La Mana, Ecuador, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels is not just about preventing sunburns; it plays a vital role in reducing the long-term risks of skin damage and skin cancer. With La Mana's tropical Aw climate, residents and visitors alike face significant exposure to UV radiation, particularly during peak hours when the index can soar to 14. Staying informed about UV levels helps you take proactive steps to enjoy the sun safely while safeguarding your skin health.
As the sun rises, the UV Index gradually climbs, peaking at 14 around 12:00 PM, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. From the early morning 1 at 7:00 AM, it swiftly escalates to 6 by 9:00 AM, then surges to its maximum intensity of 13 at 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM. After the midday peak, the UV levels start to decline, dropping to 6 by 3:00 PM, and tapering off to 1 by 5:00 PM. By 7:00 PM, the UV Index falls to 0, ensuring a safe environment for evening activities. For those venturing outdoors, sun safety precautions are essential during the high-risk hours, particularly from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 10 | 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 |
The UV Index displays consistently extreme levels throughout the year, notably peaking during March and April with a UV Index of 16. High-risk months include January through April, where the UV Index remains at 15 or higher, presenting a significant risk for sunburn with a burn time as short as 10 minutes. Even during the summer months, particularly June to August, the UV Index stays at 12, maintaining an emphasis on protective measures. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions, such as wearing sunscreen, donning protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during peak sun hours, to minimize the risk of skin damage and health issues related to intense UV exposure.
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 |
La Mana | 15 | 15 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 12 | 12 |
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 |