UV Index in Santa Elena, Ecuador

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Santa Elena, Ecuador, where the subtropical climate can lead to intense sun exposure. With UV levels often reaching highs of 11 during midday, awareness of these rays is essential not only for preventing painful sunburns but also for safeguarding long-term skin health. In this coastal city, where sunny days are the norm, recognizing the risks associated with varying UV levels can help you enjoy the outdoors safely while protecting yourself from potential harm. Stay informed and take the necessary precautions to ensure your time in the sun is both enjoyable and safe!

Hourly UV Index in Santa Elena

The UV Index for the day reveals a clear trajectory of increasing sun intensity as morning transitions into afternoon. Starting at a modest 1 at 07:00, the UV Index gradually rises, reaching a notable 6 by 10:00. The peak intensity occurs at 12:00 with an impressive 11, indicating a strong need for sun protection during these midday hours. As the day progresses, the index begins to decline, dropping to 9 by 14:00, before tapering off to 1 by 17:00, and finally fading to 0 by 19:00. It's essential to stay vigilant and protect yourself from the midday sun, especially as the index soars around noon!

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	4	moderate	30 min
10:00	6	high	25 min
11:00	9	very high	15 min
12:00	11	extreme	10 min
13:00	10	very high	15 min
14:00	9	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 Santa Elena

Throughout the year, the UV Index consistently reflects extreme levels, with values ranging from 11 to 15. The highest risk months are March (UV Index 15) and February and January (both UV Index 14), where the burn time is just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should exercise caution during these months, ensuring they use broad-spectrum sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade when necessary. Consistent vigilance is crucial as the danger of sunburn remains significant year-round, even with slightly lower indexes in June, July, and August (UV Index 11). Always prioritize skin safety for outdoor activities.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Santa Elena, Ecuador

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Santa Elena 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.

Santa Elena'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
Santa Elena	14	14	15	14	13	11	11	11	13	12	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
Quito UVI	17	17	19	19	17	14	15	15	17	17	16	14