Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Puerto Ayora, Ecuador, where the warm BSh climate brings both sunshine and risks. With UV levels peaking at a dangerous 14 around midday, being informed can effectively help prevent sunburn and safeguard your skin health. Regular awareness of UV exposure not only enhances your sun safety but also minimizes the long-term risks associated with excessive sun exposure. Whether you're lounging on the beach or exploring the stunning Galápagos landscape, knowing the UV index can make all the difference in enjoying your time under the sun safely.
The UV Index rises dramatically throughout the morning, jumping from a mild 1 at 07:00 to a peak of 14 by 12:00. As the sun reaches its zenith, the intensity surpasses 10 between 10:00 and 13:00, signaling an urgent need for sun protection. The index then gracefully declines, dropping to 5 by 15:00 and falling progressively to 0 as evening approaches, marking the day's end at 19:00. This pattern highlights the importance of staying shielded during the peak hours, especially from 11:00 to 13:00, when the sun's rays are at their strongest.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
10:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The seasonal UV data reveals consistently high UV Index values, indicating an extreme exposure category year-round, with an overall burn time of only 10 minutes. The high-risk months are January through March, when the UV Index peaks at 14 to 16, posing the greatest threat for sunburn and skin damage. As such, visitors and residents are strongly advised to take protective measures during these months, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade. Although the intensity slightly decreases from June to November, with the Index remaining around 12 to 13, precautionary measures should still be upheld throughout the year to ensure skin health.
UV Risk Categories
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 |
Puerto Ayora | 14 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 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 |