Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for both residents and visitors to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, Ecuador, a beautiful coastal city renowned for its stunning beaches and tropical climate. With maximum UV readings soaring as high as 14 around midday, awareness of UV levels is essential for sunburn prevention and maintaining long-term skin health. The region's BSh climate means that sun exposure can be intense, especially during the peak hours of 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, making it vital to take proactive measures to protect yourself from harmful rays when exploring the captivating landscapes of this unique destination.
The UV Index starts off the day at a low value of 1 at 07:00, making it a safe time for outdoor activities. As the sun rises higher, the index climbs steadily, reaching a moderate 3 by 08:00 and escalating to a high 10 by 10:00. The peak intensity occurs at 12:00, where it soars to a dangerous 14, urging caution for sun exposure. After this point, the UV levels gradually decline, dropping to 12 by 13:00, and continuing to fall through the afternoon to 5 at 15:00 and down to a low 1 by 17:00. By the evening hours, the UV Index falls to 0, signaling a safe return for outdoor activities without sun protection. Stay informed and protective during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 7 | 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 Baquerizo Moreno | 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 |