Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Sucua, Ecuador, understanding the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With the region's Cfb climate, which features tropical conditions, locals and visitors alike must stay vigilant about UV levels that can soar in the midday sun. For instance, during peak hours, the UV Index can reach 14, indicating an extreme risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Being aware of these levels not only helps safeguard your skin but also enhances your overall well-being while enjoying the vibrant outdoor activities Sucua has to offer.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dynamic pattern, peaking as the sun reaches its zenith. At 07:00, the index starts low at 1, gradually rising to 2 by 08:00. As the morning progresses, the UV Index surges to 5 at 09:00, culminating in a striking 14 at its highest point 12:00. The intensity remains high at 13 by 13:00, before gradually declining to 11 by 14:00. By late afternoon, the UV radiation diminishes to 7 at 15:00, and falls to 3 by 16:00. Finally, as the day winds down, the index drops back to 1 at 17:00 and quietly settles at 0 by 19:00. This data clearly indicates the importance of sun protection during those midday hours when UV exposure is at its most potent.
| 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels exhibit significant fluctuations, with the highest values occurring from January to April, where the index peaks at 18. This extreme exposure category during these months necessitates heightened caution, as the burn time is just 10 minutes. While May through August sees a slight decrease in UV levels, they remain in the extreme category, fluctuating between 13 and 16. September marks a return to a higher UV Index of 17, before tapering off in the remaining months, which hover around 15 to 16. Visitors and residents should take precautions during these high-risk months, particularly from January to April, by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours. Staying vigilant against UV exposure is crucial all year round, given the consistently high levels.
UV Risk Categories
| 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 |
| Cuenca UVI | 16 | 17 | 18 | 18 | 16 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 17 | 16 | 15 | 15 |
| Sucua | 16 | 17 | 18 | 18 | 16 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 17 | 16 | 16 | 15 |
| Quito UVI | 17 | 17 | 19 | 19 | 17 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 17 | 17 | 16 | 14 |