UV Index in Playas, Ecuador

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Playas, Ecuador is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. As one of the sunniest coastal towns, Playas experiences significant UV exposure levels, especially during midday when the index peaks at a hazardous level of 12. Being aware of these highs is key to preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage. With its warm climate, the risk of harmful UV radiation is ever-present, making it essential for residents and visitors alike to stay informed and take necessary precautions while enjoying the outdoors.

Hourly UV Index in Playas

The UV Index starts off low at 1 around 07:00, gradually rising to a moderate 2 by 08:00. As the sun reaches its peak, the index sharply escalates, hitting 8 at 10:00 and peaking at a striking 12 between 12:00 and 13:00. This intense solar exposure signals a strong need for protection, especially with the index maintaining an elevated 11 at 11:00 before beginning a gradual decline. By 14:00, it drops to 9, then further down to 6 at 15:00, and continues to fall, reaching 1 by 17:00. As the evening approaches, the UV levels taper off to 0 by 19:00, indicating a complete cessation of harmful UV exposure. Stay savvy and prioritize sun safety 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	5	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	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Playas

The UV Index in this region remains extremely high throughout the year, with values consistently ranging from 11 to 15. The highest UV levels occur between March and May, marking them as high-risk months for sun exposure, with a burn time of just 10 minutes during these periods. Even during June to August, the indices still present a significant risk at 11, while September to November show only a slight reduction to 12 or 13. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions year-round, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during peak sun hours, to minimize the risk of skin damage from UV radiation.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Playas, Ecuador

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Playas 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.

Playas'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
Playas	14	14	15	14	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