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UV Index in Machala, Ecuador

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Machala, Ecuador, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With its warm Aw climate, Machala experiences elevated UV levels, especially during midday hours, making it essential to understand the risks associated with sun exposure. High UV readings can lead to sunburn and long-term skin damage, emphasizing the importance of sun protection, particularly when the index peaks at a staggering 12 between noon and 1 PM. By being aware of the UV Index and taking appropriate precautions, you can enjoy the vibrant outdoors while safeguarding your skin’s health.

Hourly UV Index in Machala

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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:002low45 min
09:005moderate30 min
10:008very high15 min
11:0011extreme10 min
12:0012extreme10 min
13:0012extreme10 min
14:009very high15 min
15:006high25 min
16:003moderate30 min
17:001low45 min
18:001low45 min
19:000low45 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec141415141210101113131212
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.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Guayaquil UVI141415141211101113131112
Machala141415141210101113131212
Santo Domingo de los Colorados UVI141516151412121213141211
Cuenca UVI161718181613141417161515
Quito UVI171719191714151517171614