UV Index in Gualaquiza, Ecuador

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Gualaquiza, Ecuador, where high altitudes and the tropical climate combine to elevate UV exposure risks throughout the day. By tracking UV levels, you can effectively prevent sunburn and promote better skin health, ensuring your outdoor activities are safe and enjoyable. During the midday hours, particularly between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, the UV Index can reach a staggering 12, indicating an extreme risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. With Gualaquiza's lush, temperate climate, awareness of these UV levels is vital for protecting your skin while enjoying the beautiful outdoors.

Hourly UV Index in Gualaquiza

The UV Index varies throughout the day, peaking at 12 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, signaling a time for extra sun protection. Before this peak, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, the index climbs from 5 to a striking 11, urging vigilance as the sun intensifies. After hitting 12, the index begins to decline, dropping to 10 at 2:00 PM and gradually tapering off to 6 by 3:00 PM. The afternoon sun's intensity mellows further, leading to a safe 3 at 4:00 PM, and finally settling back to a low of 0 by 7:00 PM. Remember, during the peak hours, it's vital to stay protected and enjoy the sunshine safely!

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	10	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 Gualaquiza

The UV Index displays extreme levels throughout the year, with the highest readings occurring from January to March, peaking at 17, making these months critical for sun safety. Despite a slight decrease in the summer months, levels remain elevated, notably from September to October, where the UV Index returns to 16. With a consistently high risk of UV exposure and a very short burn time of just 10 minutes, it is essential for visitors and residents to take protective measures year-round. Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade, especially during peak sun hours, to minimize the risk of skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Gualaquiza, Ecuador

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Gualaquiza 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.

Gualaquiza'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
Santo Domingo de los Colorados UVI	14	15	16	15	14	12	12	12	13	14	12	11
Gualaquiza	15	16	17	17	15	13	12	13	16	16	15	13
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