UV Index in Montecristi, Ecuador

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the residents and visitors of Montecristi, Ecuador, where the sun's intensity can pose serious health risks. With a vibrant climate categorized in the Aw zone, Montecristi experiences high UV levels, particularly around midday when values soar to a striking 11. Being aware of these levels is essential for sunburn prevention and maintaining long-term skin health. As you plan your outdoor activities in this sun-drenched region, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen can make all the difference in protecting your skin from harmful UV radiation.

Hourly UV Index in Montecristi

At dawn, the UV Index starts at a gentle 1 by 7:00 AM, gradually rising as the sun climbs higher in the sky. By 9:00 AM, it reaches a moderate 4, urging early risers to stay vigilant. The intensity peaks at noon, hitting a scorching 11, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. This peak continues until 1:00 PM, where it remains at 11 before beginning its descent. The afternoon sees a noticeable drop, with the index falling to 6 by 3:00 PM and further decreasing to 3 by 4:00 PM. As the day winds down, the UV Index drops to a safe 1 by 5:00 PM and finally falls to 0 by 7:00 PM, signaling the end of the sun's powerful rays. Stay informed and protect your skin 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	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	11	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 Montecristi

The UV Index in this region remains consistently high throughout the year, with extreme exposure categories dominating from January to May and again in the fall. The peak of the UV Index occurs in March and April, reaching 15, while January and February maintain a UV Index of 14. Notable high-risk months for sun exposure include March and April, where residents and visitors should exercise particular caution. It is crucial for everyone to be vigilant about sun safety during these periods, adhering to guidelines that suggest limiting direct exposure to sunlight and applying sunscreen every 10 minutes. Regardless of the month, proper sun protection is essential year-round.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Montecristi, Ecuador

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Montecristi 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.

Montecristi'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
Montecristi	14	14	15	15	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