UV Index in Palenque, Ecuador

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Palenque, Ecuador, where the combination of its tropical climate and high-altitude sun exposes individuals to significant UV radiation. Monitoring UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health, especially during peak hours when the index reaches as high as 11 around midday. With a typical climate characterized by warm temperatures, Palenque presents unique exposure risks that make awareness of the UV Index an important aspect of daily life. Stay informed and enjoy the sun safely!

Hourly UV Index in Palenque

The UV Index for the day paints a vivid picture of sun intensity, reaching its peak at 12:00 PM with a blistering 11, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Starting from a mild 1 at 7 AM, the index ramps up quickly, hitting 4 by 9 AM and soaring to 9 by 11 AM. As the clock strikes 1 PM, it dips slightly to 10, before descending steadily to 6 by 3 PM and dropping to a mere 1 by 5 PM. The afternoon hours bring relief as the sun retreats, culminating in a shadowy 0 by 7 PM. This data underscores the importance of sun safety during the midday hours when the risk is at its highest.

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	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 Palenque

Throughout the year, the UV Index remains exceptionally high, ranging from 11 to 15 during the peak months, indicating an extreme exposure category. Notably, the highest UV readings occur from March to May, with March reaching an index of 15, marking it as one of the highest-risk months for sun exposure. Additionally, January and February also present significant hazards with a UV Index of 14. Residents and visitors should exercise caution during these months, ensuring to limit sun exposure, wear protective clothing, and apply sunscreen regularly, as the burn time is as little as 10 minutes across the board. Always stay informed about daily UV levels to protect your skin effectively.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Palenque, Ecuador

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Palenque 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.

Palenque'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
Palenque	14	14	15	14	13	11	11	12	13	13	11	11
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