UV Index in Zaruma, Ecuador

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Zaruma, Ecuador, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels helps you take proactive measures against sunburn and long-term skin damage, allowing you to enjoy the vibrant outdoor lifestyle without worry. With its tropicalized climate, Zaruma experiences varying UV exposure throughout the day, peaking at a staggering 12 around noon. This makes it essential for residents and visitors alike to stay informed and take necessary precautions to protect themselves from harmful solar radiation.

Hourly UV Index in Zaruma

The UV Index for the day shows a dramatic shift as the sun climbs higher, reaching its peak at noon with a value of 12, indicating a very high level of UV radiation. The sun's intensity begins to ramp up sharply from 8:00 AM, where it starts at a mild 2, climbing to a notable 11 by 11:00 AM. By 1:00 PM, the UV Index remains steady at 12, reminding everyone to take necessary precautions. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually declines, with values dropping to 6 by 3:00 PM, and tapering off to 1 by 5:00 PM. By 7:00 PM, the rating falls to a mere 0, signaling a safe return outdoors as daylight fades. Remember to shield yourself 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.
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	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	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

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.

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.
	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
Zaruma	15	16	17	17	15	12	12	13	16	15	14	14
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