Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Archidona, Ecuador is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With its tropical climate, Archidona experiences significant UV exposure, particularly during midday hours, where levels can soar as high as 15. Being aware of these fluctuations helps in preventing sunburn and reduces the risk of long-term skin damage. On sunny days, knowing when to seek shade or wear sunscreen is essential for enjoying the beautiful landscapes without compromising your skin’s health. Stay informed and shield yourself from harmful rays while basking in the vibrant beauty of Archidona!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins at a modest 1 at 07:00, gradually climbing through the morning. By 09:00, it reaches 6, indicating an increased risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. The peak occurs at 12:00, with a staggering 15, emphasizing the need for sunscreen and protective clothing. The UV intensity starts to dip after this high point, falling to 10 by 14:00, then easing to 6 by 15:00 as the sun begins its descent. Finally, by evening, the index drops back to 0 by 19:00, making the later hours much safer for outdoor activities. Remember, for the most UV exposure, plan your outdoor time wisely!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 15 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 14 | 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 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels remain high, particularly in the early months from January to April, where the index peaks at 17. This suggests that the highest risk months are clearly the winter and early spring, specifically March and April, where exposure is categorized as extreme, and the burn time is as short as 10 minutes. Although the index slightly declines to 13 during the summer months of June through August, it remains in the extreme category, continuing to pose significant risks to skin health. As we move toward fall, the UV Index rises again in September and October before gently tapering off, highlighting a persistent danger for residents and visitors alike. It is crucial for everyone to take precautions year-round—wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize risks, especially during the high UV index periods.
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 |
| Archidona | 15 | 15 | 17 | 17 | 15 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 12 |
| 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 |