Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Cayambe, Ecuador, where the high elevation and unique climate can lead to significant sun exposure risks. With UV levels peaking in the early afternoon, knowing when to protect your skin is essential for preventing sunburn and maintaining long-term skin health. The typical Csb climate of Cayambe, with its moderate temperatures, can lull you into a false sense of security, but be cautious—UV Index values can soar as high as 14, especially around midday. Awareness of UV levels not only safeguards your skin but also enhances your outdoor experience in this beautiful region.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a mild 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it climbs to 3, indicating a cautious need for sun protection. The real intensity kicks in by 09:00, reaching 6, and peaks at a striking 14 at 12:00—the hour when the sun is at its zenith. With readings of 13 still prevalent from 11:00 to 13:00, it’s a vital time to stay protected! As afternoon settles in, the UV levels gradually taper off; they dip to 6 by 15:00 and descend further to 3 at 16:00. By evening, the risk diminishes significantly with a return to 1 at 17:00, rounding off the day as twilight approaches with a 0 reading by 19:00. Stay safe in the sun!
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 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 13 | 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 |
Throughout the year, exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation remains extremely high, with the UV Index peaking at 18 in both March and April. The high-risk months for UV exposure are from January to May, where the UV Index consistently ranges from 17 to 18, indicating a burn time of just 10 minutes. Although June through December sees a slight reduction in the UV Index (ranging from 14 to 16), the risk still remains significant. Therefore, it is essential for visitors and residents to take precautions such as wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and seeking shade, especially during the mid-day hours when the sun's rays are most potent. Remember, even on cloudy days, UV rays can reach harmful levels, so vigilance is key year-round.
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 |
Cayambe | 17 | 17 | 18 | 18 | 17 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 14 |
Quito UVI | 17 | 17 | 19 | 19 | 17 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 17 | 17 | 16 | 14 |