Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Eloy Alfaro, Ecuador, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels can help you take essential precautions against sunburn and long-term skin damage, especially in a region where the climate is classified as Aw, featuring high sunshine exposure throughout the day. During peak hours, particularly between 10 AM and 1 PM, the UV Index skyrockets, reaching a maximum of 13—a level that signifies an extreme risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. Being aware of these levels empowers residents and visitors alike to enjoy the sun safely while minimizing their risk.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a distinct pattern of increasing and decreasing intensity. Starting at an inconspicuous low of 1 at 07:00, it gradually rises to a moderate 2 by 08:00. The real surge begins at 09:00, with the index climbing to 5, then tipping into the high range with a peak of 13 at 12:00. The sun's strength is undeniable, as it reaches its pinnacle at 11:00 with a robust 12 before mildly tapering off to 9 by 14:00 and subsequently declining. As the afternoon wanes, the index falls to 3 by 16:00, trailing off to a gentle 1 by early evening and concluding the day at a safe 0 by 19:00. This hourly UVI data serves as a reminder to stay protected during the peak hours of 11:00 to 14:00 to ensure a safe and enjoyable day outdoors!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | 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 |
Throughout the year, seasonal UV changes reveal consistently high levels of ultraviolet radiation, particularly during the first half of the year. From January to April, the UV Index peaks at an extreme level of 14 to 16, signaling that March is the month with the highest risk for UV exposure. Although May to July sees a slight decrease, the UV Index remains at 11—still categorized as extreme. August to October returns to a UV Index of 13, indicating a continuation of high risk into early fall. Given that burn time is only 10 minutes across all months, residents and visitors should take precautions, such as wearing protective clothing and applying sunscreen frequently, especially from January through April when UV levels are at their most intense. Being proactive in UV safety is crucial for enjoying outdoor activities while minimizing skin damage.
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 |
| Eloy Alfaro | 14 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 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 |