UV Index in Playas, Ecuador

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Playas, Ecuador, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin under the intense sun. With high UV levels peaking around midday, being aware of these readings can help you prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. Playas enjoys a warm, tropical climate, which means UV exposure can be especially strong, particularly during the summer months. By keeping track of the UV Index, you empower yourself to enjoy the beautiful beaches while safeguarding your skin health – because a little knowledge can go a long way in enjoying the sun responsibly!

Hourly UV Index in Playas

The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dynamic pattern, peaking sharply during midday hours. At 07:00, the index starts low at 1, indicating minimal risk. As the sun rises, it climbs to 2 at 08:00 and rapidly escalates to 4 by 09:00. By 10:00, the intensity reaches 7, but the real intensity hits at 12:00 with a maximum of 11, signifying a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Though it dips slightly to 10 at 13:00, the index begins to retreat, dropping to 8 at 14:00, followed by a more gradual decrease to 5 at 15:00. As the sun sets, the index falls to 3 by 16:00, and then drops to 1 by 17:00, settling at a low 0 by 19:00. This data serves as a vital reminder for sun safety, especially during 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	7	high	25 min
11:00	9	very high	15 min
12:00	11	extreme	10 min
13:00	10	very high	15 min
14:00	8	very high	15 min
15:00	5	moderate	30 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