Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Cayambe, Ecuador, where high altitude and geographic location lead to significant sun exposure risks. As the UV levels fluctuate throughout the day, particularly peaking at an intense 14 between noon and 1 PM, it's essential to stay informed to effectively prevent sunburn and safeguard your skin health. Cayambe's Csb climate, characterized by its mild temperatures, still harbors potential hazards under the sun. By monitoring the UV Index, you can enjoy the outdoors while minimizing damage from harmful rays.
The UV Index exhibits a dynamic pattern throughout the day, peaking at 14 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, indicating high levels of ultraviolet radiation during this time. As the sun climbs, the index rises rapidly from a modest 1 at 7:00 AM to a striking 13 by 11:00 AM, highlighting the increasing need for sun protection. After the peak hours, the index begins to decline, dropping to 7 by 3:00 PM and further to 1 by 5:00 PM, before falling to 0 at 7:00 PM. This data underscores the importance of staying vigilant and protected during the sunniest hours!
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 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
16:00 | 4 | 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 |