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UV Index in Zaruma, Ecuador

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Zaruma, Ecuador is crucial for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn. With its Aw climate—characterized by a tropical savanna with extended dry seasons—Zaruma experiences varying UV levels throughout the day, peaking around noon with an index of 14. This knowledge empowers residents and visitors alike to make informed decisions about sun exposure, especially during those riskier hours between 10 AM and 2 PM. By staying aware of the UV Index, you can take necessary precautions to enjoy the beautiful, sunlit days in Zaruma while minimizing the risk of skin damage.

Hourly UV Index in Zaruma

The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dramatic shift in solar intensity. Early morning hours, from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM, reveal mild levels of UV exposure, with indices of 1 and 2, making it a safe time for outdoor activities. As the clock strikes 9:00 AM, the UV Index surges to 6, indicating the onset of higher sunlight intensity. By 10:00 AM, it peaks at an impressive 9. The sun reaches its zenith around 12:00 PM, where the index hits 14, marking a crucial time to take protective measures against UV rays. Despite a slight decline to 10 at 2:00 PM, the afternoon still demands caution. As the day winds down, the UV levels dramatically drop to 1 by 5:00 PM and reach negligible levels by evening. Remember to protect your skin 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
09:006high25 min
10:009very high15 min
11:0013extreme10 min
12:0014extreme10 min
13:0013extreme10 min
14:0010very high15 min
15:007high25 min
16:003moderate30 min
17:001low45 min
18:001low45 min
19:000low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Zaruma

The UV Index exhibits significant variability throughout the year, with values peaking at 17 in March and April, categorizing these months as high-risk for skin damage due to extreme exposure. Notably, the average burn time remains consistently low at 10 minutes across all months, emphasizing the need for vigilance. While January to May and September to November maintain high UV levels, it’s critical for both visitors and residents to prioritize sun safety, especially during the spring months when UV radiation is most intense. Recommendations include wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen generously, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Zaruma, Ecuador

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Zaruma. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec151617171412121316151414
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Zaruma, 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 Zaruma UV Index with Other Ecuador Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Zaruma 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.
Zaruma's solar exposure compared to other cities in Ecuador. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Guayaquil UVI141415141211101113131112
Machala UVI141415141210101113131212
Santo Domingo de los Colorados UVI141516151412121213141211
Zaruma151617171512121316151414
Cuenca UVI161718181613141417161515
Quito UVI171719191714151517171614