UV Index in Machala, Ecuador

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Machala, Ecuador, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. The UV levels can soar, especially during midday, so understanding these fluctuations is essential for preventing sunburn and reducing the risk of long-term skin damage. With a warm climate typical of the Aw zone, residents and visitors alike are exposed to higher UV radiation, particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM when the UV Index peaking at 10 indicates a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Staying informed about daily UV levels helps you enjoy the sun safely!

Hourly UV Index in Machala

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM. However, by 10:00 AM, it swiftly climbs to a more intense 6, signaling that outdoor enthusiasts should take precautions. The peak intensity occurs during the midday hours, where it reaches its highest values of 10 at both 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM. This is when skin protection is crucial, as the sun’s rays are most potent. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually decreases; by 4:00 PM, it dips to 3, and by 7:00 PM, it drops to a safe 0. Overall, it’s essential to monitor UV levels throughout the day, especially during the peak hours, to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience outdoors.

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	4	moderate	30 min
10:00	6	high	25 min
11:00	9	very high	15 min
12:00	10	very high	15 min
13:00	10	very high	15 min
14:00	8	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 Machala

Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences notable fluctuations, with high-risk months largely concentrated from January to April, where the index remains consistently at 14 to 15 with an extreme exposure category and a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. As summer approaches, June and July see a slight decrease to 10, categorized as very high, extending burn time to 15 minutes. August to November maintains an extreme risk level with UV indices between 12 and 13, keeping burn times at 10 minutes. Therefore, residents and visitors are advised to take precautionary measures during these months: wear protective clothing, apply broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly, and seek shade during peak sun hours to minimize skin damage. Being vigilant about UV exposure is essential in ensuring safety and health in these regions.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Machala, Ecuador

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Machala 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.

Machala'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	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
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