UV Index in Esmeraldas, Ecuador

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Esmeraldas, Ecuador, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin health under the sun. Understanding UV levels not only aids in preventing painful sunburn but also plays a vital role in reducing the risk of long-term skin damage. With Esmeraldas' tropical climate, where UV exposure can peak dramatically—reaching a staggering 12 at midday—it's essential for residents and visitors alike to stay informed. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the vibrant outdoor lifestyle that this beautiful coastal town offers, all while protecting your skin from the sun's potentially harmful effects.

Hourly UV Index in Esmeraldas

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 Esmeraldas

Throughout the year, the UV Index remains consistently high, indicating an extreme risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. The highest UV values occur from March to May, peaking at 15, making these months particularly dangerous, alongside January and February, which maintain a UV Index of 14. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions year-round, particularly during these high-risk months, by wearing appropriate sun protection such as sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing, and minimizing sun exposure during peak times. Rain or cloud cover does not significantly lessen the potential for skin damage, so vigilance is essential for maintaining skin health at any time of the year.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Esmeraldas, Ecuador

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Esmeraldas 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.

Esmeraldas'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
Esmeraldas	14	14	15	15	13	12	12	12	13	13	11	11
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